iQ Thrive Academy
Levelling the playing fieldUnlocking career potential
We know that students from lower socio-economic backgrounds need more support to reach their full career potential. We want to be more than just a student home. We want to make an impact. The iQ Thrive Academy, in partnership with upReach, is our way of supporting social mobility, by giving students the skills and experience they need for the best possible starts to their careers.
The iQ Thrive Academy supports students from across the country with:
• A 3-year programme to boost their employability skills
• Mentoring opportunities
• The opportunity to undertake internships with iQ
• Access to iQ’s social and study spaces
• Networking events to expand their connections
Students from the programme are also offered free accommodation during the academic year to help make their university journey that little bit easier.
Who is upReach?
Founded in 2012, upReach is one of the UK’s leading social mobility charities. They aim to create the conditions for undergraduates from less advantaged backgrounds to access competitive graduate employment by building the right skills and gaining the right experiences. By matching students to mentors and giving them access to career support, upReach better prepares students for their professional journey ahead.
Student Networking
Where a student lives during university plays a huge part on their overall experience. It’s where they meet their friends, build communities around shared interests, and start their own networks. iQ Thrive Academy associates will be given the room to expand their networks, with access to our onsite study and social spaces as well as exclusive events to make the right connections.
Reading Room
Joseph's journey with upReach | iQ Thrive Academy
When launching the iQ Thrive Academy, we spoke to upReach alumnus Joseph about his university experience, from feeling out of place to gaining the confidence to build his career.
Tiegan's journey with upReach | iQ Thrive Academy
As we launched the iQ Thrive Academy, we spoke to upReach alumna Tiegan’s story about overcoming financial and class worries to work in her dream role in government.
Reggie's journey | iQ Thrive Academy
From a challenging home life on a council estate, to helping pave the way for other young people to access the right support, discover Reggie Nelson’s journey.
