Evolve

What is the Evolve Project?

The Evolve Project is a skills-based programme focused on raising attainment for KS3 learners in Leicester, through metacognition, led by the Education Theme Group. It aims to equip learners with:
• metacognitive skills and strategies;
• strategies to study, learn, and revise more effectively;
• ways to build confidence and self-awareness;
• skills of self-reflection and self-regulation.
Learners will be able to apply these skills and strategies to their studies, supporting them in their GCSEs studies and progression into HE in the future, should they wish to attend.

Built around the core belief that progress is a shared responsibility, the Education Theme Group brings together partners, local schools, and students to showcase the power of collaborative outreach. Evolve has been designed and piloted in collaboration with all University partners and Uni Connect: Pathways.

How It Works

The project is structured around the programme that is designed to be sustained and progressive across an entire Key Stage; Learners in Year 7 will receive 7 x workshops across 2 academic terms. As this same cohort progresses into Years 8 and 9, they will receive the same, more developed programmes. Thus, a learner will have received 21 sessions led by a HE member of staff across their KS3 experience, with each element contributing to a shared vision. Currently, all universities and Pathways are delivering a pilot of the programme with evaluation baked into the approach. We anticipate the evaluation report to be ready for public review during the Autumn term 2025, which will inform and strengthen Evolve for years to come.

Why this matters

In a rapidly changing world, responsive and forward-thinking initiatives like the Evolve Project are more important than ever. By addressing attainment levels amongst learners in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, Evolve plays a vital role in shaping sustainable outcomes for the future and alleviating attainment as a potential barrier for learners accessing HE in the future. It also matters because it reflects the values of the Universities Partnership collaboration, innovation, and community impact. Through Evolve, we’re not just responding to today’s problems—we’re building capacity for long-term solutions.

Who’s Involved

Evolve brings together a wide range of voices from Higher Education and the secondary school sector. Key partners include all University partners, the SDSA, which developed the materials, and all local schools involved in its pilot.