University Centre Somerset’s Access Course Leader Pam Jones is 2026 Gateway Qualifications Access to HE Tutor of the Year.
Gateway Qualifications received 104 nominations from learners across the UK this year, recognising tutors who have made a difference. Judges selected 10 finalists, with Pam ultimately chosen as the national winner.
Pam is Course Leader for the Science and Nursing, Midwifery & Healthcare Access to HE programmes at UCS. She supports adult learners to rebuild their confidence, develop academic skills for higher education and progress towards opportunities that may once have felt out of reach.
Her students successfully complete degrees and pursue careers in areas including nursing, veterinary science, radiography and dental therapy.
The impact Pam has on her learners is perhaps best summed up in their own words:
Pam has taught me far more than I ever learned in school. I’d actually recommend the Access course to anyone who struggled in school because Pam has created a space in which learning is fascinating.
Pam Jones is an inspiration and makes learning possible for everyone who is motivated to improve their lives through education.
Throughout my whole education, Pam has been the best teacher I have had overall.
I can’t fully express how grateful I am to Pam. She didn’t just help me finish a course; she changed my life for the better. I have a whole new confidence in everyday life. She gave me chances I never thought I’d have.
Access to HE at UCS
Access to HE programmes are for adults aged 19+ who want to progress to higher education but may not currently have the qualifications they need.
For many learners, this means returning to education after time away and balancing studies with work, family and other commitments. Alongside developing the academic knowledge and skills needed for degree-level study, learners receive the support and encouragement to build their confidence and take their next step.
Delivered at our Taunton campus (Taunton College), UCS currently offers two routes:
– Nursing, Midwifery & Healthcare
– Science.
Applications for Access to HE at UCS are now open for September 2027 here.
Why not visit a Taunton campus Open Evening to meet Pam and have a chat about the course? Book your place here.