Deputy Mayor visits Lewisham Launchpad scheme

Goldsmiths created and hosted a new programme for young people preparing to transition into higher education this autumn, including a zine making session attended by Deputy Mayor Joanne McCartney.

The Lewisham Launchpad programme, which ran 7 - 9 September, aimed to create a sense of community and belonging for young people in South London who are transitioning into higher education, whether they be planning to join Goldsmiths or another institution. It also offered participants, many of whom were from underrepresented backgrounds, and those who applied to Goldsmiths through Clearing, workshops to help them prepare for living independently as a university student, covering vital life skills like financial literacy and cooking. The programme also recognised the needs of soon-to-be commuter students, and sought to support them in forming connections and community outside of the halls of residence environment. 

20 young adults participated in the events, which were held on campus and in nearby local venues. Delivered by the Access, Engagement and Success Team, the programme partnered with local organisations including Pristine Eats Catering for cooking workshops and Arts Network for zine making. There was also a financial literacy workshop, an independent living workshop, team sports activities, and a session with Lewisham Youth Theatre. The three-day programme culminated in a BBQ for the young people to reflect and connect with other participants. 

Megan Andersson-Bastable, Access and Participation Manager, said: "While Welcome Week at any university provides students with key university-related information and social opportunities, for some students - especially those who may have taken non-traditional routes into higher education - further support around financial skills, the realities of independent living and studies, and activities to build community can be really valuable."

Deputy Mayor Joanne McCartney attends zine making session  

Deputy Mayor for Children and Families Joanne McCartney saw the impact of the programme first hand as she joined a zine making session run by Arts Network as part of Lewisham Launchpad.

London Higher and City Hall partnership to create new opportunities for young Londoners 

A partnership between London Higher and the Greater London Authority (GLA) is supporting universities across the capital to expand holiday-time programmes for young Londoners from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. Throughout the 2026-2027 academic year, institutions across the city will deliver pilot projects which will help young Londoners to develop skills and explore future study and career options. Lewisham Launchpad is one of several projects delivered by London Higher members and partners across the capital, supporting care-experienced young people, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, young people at risk of not being in education, employment or training (NEET), and other groups currently underrepresented in higher education. 

The partnership is part of the Mayor of London’s Holiday Hope programme, a £6m investment that aims to support 250,000 young Londoners from vulnerable backgrounds.

Speaking about the London Higher partnership with City Hall, Joanne McCartney, Deputy Mayor for Children and Families, said, “We’re determined for London to be the best city to grow up in and are delighted to be working with London’s universities to support and provide opportunities to young people as part of the Mayor’s £6m Holiday Hope scheme.”