Opinion: Westhill course closure is a major loss

The news that the Westhill College (now Birmingham University) youth and community work JNC qualifying course is to close captures these problems perfectly (YPN, 24-30 January, p2). The Community and Youth Work Union's journal says the university no longer wishes to run courses where entry requirements are less than very high A-level grades. Of course, the Westhill course has always taken a wide profile of students on broad entry criteria.

I am deeply saddened, because I have contributed to that course, particularly as a visiting lecturer and practice placement supervisor, since the late 1970s. I have supported the most "unlikely" students, helping them grow in confidence and strengthen their contribution to youth work along the way - often individuals who never thought they were "worth" a college (and then university) diploma or degree. The intellectual growth of these individuals gave me a profound sense of pride and satisfaction. That was what Westhill did to, for and with people.