UWE Bristol – Our founding Key Partner

UWE Bristol became our founding Key Partner in 2017 supporting our social and environmental impact work. In the first year we worked closely with them on a number of projects and events and are delighted that they renewed their annual partnership in 2018. They’ve been at the heart of our Better Bristol initiative and we continue to work closely with them on a number of exciting projects.

UWE Bristol is one of the UK’s most popular universities, with more than 28,000 students studying here and at overseas partner universities. As a progressive, supportive university, the focus is on real-world learning experiences, enabling students to graduate enterprising and ready for work. UWE Bristol collaborates with industry to identify skills shortages, develop courses, and provide work opportunities for students. The University has one of the largest paid internship programmes in the UK, arranging over 11,000 internships and work placements since 2010.

The annual National Student Survey has shown student satisfaction at the University rising for the third consecutive year to 88%, making UWE Bristol the highest ranked of all the universities in the South West. Students continue to come from a diverse range of backgrounds, and the University is proud to see a high number of local students. UWE Bristol graduates go on to have successful careers, making a real impact on the world. Employment statistics for 2017 showed over 95% of its graduates in employment or further study within six months.

‘UWE Bristol is taking a national leading role in the approach to student mental health and wellbeing. They are working alongside Universities UK and Student Minds UK to pilot the Step Change Framework, which aims to develop a ‘whole university’ approach to mental health and wellbeing for universities across the country. Locally, they are working with partners to play a role in the approach across Bristol.’

UWE Bristol has ambitious plans for its future too, and is currently investing £300 million in accommodation, equipment and technology for students. 2017 saw the opening of the stunning £55 million Business and Law School on Frenchay Campus. Designed to look and feel like a dynamic central London office complex, and with close relationships with the local business community, it aims to provide an inspiring business culture for students throughout their learning.

The new £9 million building for creatives at Bower Ashton also opened in 2017, with a second building due to follow in the next two years. The building is home to industry standard production and post production facilities for film making, animation and photography.