Our Story

Central to our mission is the acknowledgement that the persistent challenges within the sector are a reflection of a system that has not been set up to include everyone. Our growth has been driven by a deep understanding of the experiences of Black students and staff in higher education. 

Half of all Black pupils in the UK today go on to higher education. Despite this encouraging increase only 9% enrol in high-tariff institutions. Once Black students enter university, they face a 6% gap in continuation beyond the first year of study and a nearly 20% gap in achieving first or upper second class degrees compared to their white counterparts. Troublingly, disparities persist even when students enter university with identical qualifications and grades.

After graduating, Black graduates experience challenges in accessing highly skilled employment and reporting lower career satisfaction compared to their peers. Those aspiring to pursue careers in research often encounter challenges in securing PhD funding  and advancing to professorships.

At Leading Routes, we’ve not only shifted narratives surrounding higher education for Black students but also initiated dialogues with institutions to advocate for real, sustainable change. Our vision extends beyond addressing disparities; we aim to reshape ideologies and institutions to create environments where Black students and academics thrive. 

As we continue to create our story, we remain committed to dismantling barriers and nurturing a community that supports Black scholars on their educational journey.