Children's services
National recognition for Walsall partnership which supports children in care
Published on
Walsall Virtual School is proud to be part of the Aspire2Uni (A2U) programme, which has received a national award at the prestigious 2026 National Education Opportunities Network (NEON) Awards.
The school, alongside five other regional Virtual Schools in Dudley, Sandwell, Wolverhampton and Staffordshire is a key partner in the A2U programme. This unique partnership with the University of Wolverhampton took home the Widening Access Initiative category award at a ceremony held on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, at the Palace of Westminster.
The award recognises outstanding work in supporting young people in care, one of the most underrepresented groups in UK higher education. Through the programme, students gain access to a wide range of enrichment activities, university experiences, mentoring opportunities, and vital information about future education and career pathways.
“ This national award highlights the life-changing impact of the Aspire2Uni programme and the dedication of our Walsall Virtual School team, other schools within the region, including their teachers, and our young people.
Young people in care face various challenges and our collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton and regional partners allows us to fulfil our duty of creating opportunities for them to thrive. By opening doors and fostering their long-term ambitions, we are overcoming these obstacles and proving to these bright individuals that their dreams and goals are limitless. “
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Notes to the Editor
About Walsall Virtual School
The Walsall Virtual School is a model by which Walsall Council provides services and support for the education of children in care and previously in care and a constructive challenge to those providing the services". We work closely and in partnership with education settings, social care, parents /carers and other professionals to ensure there is a holistic and comprehensive approach to the support of children in and previously in care in all areas of their lives and to ensure all children and young people receive a quality provision via all partnerships.
Walsall Virtual School works to ensure that the education of our children and young people is of an exceptional standard. We aim for learners to have access to high quality, personalised and aspirational learning opportunities and strive to ensure they receive this.
For more information, visit: https://wvs.sch.life/Page/Category/about-the-virtual-school-
