1. Purpose and Regulatory Context
This Access and Participation Statement explains County Business School’s approach to promoting equality of opportunity in relation to access, participation, continuation, attainment and progression. The statement is aligned with the terminology and expectations set out in the Office for Students (OfS) regulatory framework, including Condition A1, and is published to ensure transparency while our application for registration in the Approved category is under consideration.
2. Office for Students registration status
County Business School has applied to register with the Office for Students in the Approved category. At the time of publication of this statement, County Business School is not registered with the OfS and a decision on our application has not yet been made.
Providers registered in the Approved category are not required to have an access and participation plan approved by the OfS. Accordingly, County Business School has not submitted an access and participation plan for approval at this stage.
3. Condition A1 and the Approved category
Condition A1 of the OfS regulatory framework applies only to providers registered in the Approved (fee cap) category that intend to charge fees above the basic amount to qualifying persons on qualifying courses.
As County Business School is applying for registration in the Approved category, Condition A1 does not apply to us at this time. However, we recognise the importance of equality of opportunity and intend to have due regard to the principles underpinning Condition A1 as part of our approach to access, participation and student outcomes.
4. Student support and funding
Applicants and students should be aware that eligibility for student support, including student finance, is linked to a provider’s regulatory status and course designation.
Our assessment draws on sector evidence, internal performance data, and student feedback.
As County Business School is not currently registered with the Office for Students, students are not eligible to access student support or funding that depends on OfS registration. Access to such support can only be confirmed if County Business School is successfully registered with the OfS and any additional requirements are met.
5. Equality of opportunity in access (intended approach)
Although not subject to Condition A1, County Business School is committed to promoting equality of opportunity in access. Our intended approach includes:
Providing clear, accurate and accessible information about courses, entry requirements, fees and progression opportunities.
Applying fair and transparent admissions practices that recognise a range of prior attainment, qualifications and experience.
Ensuring admissions decisions are consistent and free from unlawful discrimination.
6. Participation, continuation and student experience (intended approach)
County Business School intends to support participation and continuation by fostering an inclusive learning environment and providing appropriate academic and pastoral support.
Supporting student engagement and a sense of belonging.
Making reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities, learning differences or health
conditions, where required.
Encouraging feedback to inform continuous improvement.
7. Attainment and progression (intended approach)
County Business School intends to support positive student outcomes by:
- Supporting students to achieve their academic potential.
- Embedding employability skills and progression planning within programmes.
- Supporting progression into further study, employment or professional development.
8. Review and transparency
County Business School will keep its approach to access and participation under review and will update this statement as appropriate to reflect any changes in regulatory status or requirements.
9. Communication of application outcome
County Business School will write to applicants and students to confirm the outcome of its application as soon as a formal decision is received from the Office for Students.
10. Contact information
For further information, or to request this statement in an alternative format, please contact:
Email: info@countybs.com
Telephone: 020 8077 0451