MORE people than ever are being given the opportunity to enjoy university level education in St Helens.

During the past year, St Helens College received a record number of applications, resulting in a 10 per cent increase in the number of higher education places on offer.

UCAS figures show an upsurge in the number of disadvantaged young people taking up a university place, and St Helens College saw an additional 384 students classified as disadvantaged being enrolled on to higher education courses in 2013, compared to 2012.

College principal Jette Burford said: “It is really encouraging to see this upward trend – we are particularly proud of our excellent higher education offer.

“We have taken the decision to freeze our tuition fees this year in a bid to try and make university level education even more accessible to all.

“St Helens College has a particularly competitive higher education offer with smaller class sizes, more tutor contact time, lower tuition fees, the option to study a range of HNCs, HNDs, foundation and honours degree courses.

“Students are offered a quality university experience locally, with excellent facilities in which to study.”

Success rates at the college are higher than ever and last year 69% of students gained a first class or 2.1 degree. Higher education courses available range from game art to microbiology.

Applications are welcome from school leavers looking to progress on to a degree course, and mature students.

From September, the college will also offer a range of A-levels with a guaranteed progression option on to the college’s higher education provision. To apply for a full or part-time degree course, or for more information, call 0800 996699 or visit sthelens.ac.uk.