The research report, called Forgotten Learners: building a system that works for mature students, was published by higher education think-tank MillionPlus.

The report highlighted that while increased access to university for students from disadvantaged backgrounds is rightly commended, the focus from policymakers remains on the ‘traditional’ school-leavers, while mature students have become the forgotten learners of higher education.

Cassandra Pinner, 38, from Kempton near Bedford, graduated from the University in 2017 with a BSc (Hons) in Adult Nursing.

“At first going to university was overwhelming, studying full-time with two children. I also have epilepsy.  But there was quite a bit of flexibility around the course and the placements which I managed to fit in around breakfast and after-school clubs,” said Cassandra.

“There were plenty of other mature students on the course. In fact, we were a mixture of younger and older students, from all sorts of backgrounds, and we all got on really well.

“After graduating I got a job in a nearby medical practice as a Practice Nurse. The course changed my life. I love my job and couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”

Liam Stott, 31, recently completed an MSc in Marketing at the University while working in the University’s Student Recruitment team.

“I decided to go back to university to develop my academic knowledge of marketing and assist with my professional skills development,” said Liam, who lives in Garston, Hertfordshire.

“Starting off as a mature learner was a bit nerve-wracking, but the course induction week run by the Business School, as well as teaching key concepts in an accessible manner to all learners, made for a straightforward transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

“My tutors were especially supportive in class and outside, where you could book appointments or email them to ask for help during assessment periods.”