A presentation from the HEA's Research Conference: Promoting Equity in Higher Education 2010.
Based upon research undertaken by the author and her professional concerns as a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at a post-1992 university in the South East of England this paper explores an aspect of post-compulsory education where challenges and barriers to higher education entry may be experienced; namely for black minority ethnic students enrolled on further education 'Access to Social Work' courses in England. Underpinned by principles of social justice Access to Higher Education courses endeavour to promote widening participation to students who are generally from less privileged social backgrounds and who have historically been under-represented in higher education.
Drawing upon theoretical ideas relating to social reproduction critical race theory feminist theory and life span development principles the paper examines the education and career choices of 'Access to Social Work' students exploring whether their choices are influenced by any key 'turning points' linked to structure and agency factors. The paper also identifies whether these students' ambitions are being thwarted by more stringent entry requirements for social work education introduced in 2003 and the increased emphasis by Government on basic skills development. Finally it illustrates how individual agency is exerted to overcome structural barriers to gain entry to higher education.
