This report evaluates the Medical Schools Council (MSC) Summer Schools delivered in 2019 and 2020, funded by Health Education England. The programme aims to widen participation in medicine by supporting students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. In 2020, the summer schools adapted to online delivery due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Key findings
- The MSC exceeded its recruitment target, engaging 735 students against a goal of 560.
- Over 61% of participants were from areas with low engagement in medical outreach, known as ‘cold spots’.
- More than half of the students came from the most disadvantaged areas, as measured by the Index of Multiple Deprivation and POLAR 4.
- 37.2% of participants were eligible for free school meals, more than double the national average.
- The programme included students in local authority care, young carers, and those with no parental experience of higher education.
- Attitudinal surveys and interviews showed increased confidence, understanding of medical careers, and readiness for higher education.
- Online delivery was largely successful, though some students faced challenges with internet access and home responsibilities.
Recommendations
- Continue targeting students in care and those from cold spots.
- Collect gender and ethnicity data as standard.
- Tailor summer school content to the differing needs of Year 11 and Year 12 students.
- Improve support for students with limited digital access and home learning environments.
- Explore ways to enhance students’ physical and emotional wellbeing, particularly in online settings.
The report highlights the importance of sustained, targeted outreach in diversifying the future medical workforce. It also provides insights into how online learning can be made more inclusive and effective for students facing multiple barriers to higher education.
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