The University of Portsmouth (UoP) marked a major milestone on May 22 with the official unveiling of its new London Pathway College (LPC Pathway).
The launch event, held on-site at the university’s London campus, brought together key stakeholders, staff, recruitment partners, and local dignitaries — including the Mayor of Waltham Forest – to celebrate the new pathway college.
The campus is set to welcome its first cohort of students in the forthcoming academic year, offering a wide range of foundation, first year and pre-masters programs, allowing students to progress to their chosen University of Portsmouth London degree.
“The London Pathway College has been established on the foundation of a shared commitment to academic excellence and student achievement,” said Bobby Mehta, pro-vice chancellor for global engagement at the University of Portsmouth.
“This significant new initiative, developed in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth, offers students the opportunity to begin their studies in a vibrant and well-connected capital, with a clear progression route to degree programs at the University of Portsmouth’s London campus,” he said.
This launch marks the beginning of a transformative educational journey, rich with opportunity and personal growth for every student
Bobby Mehta, University of Portsmouth
“Throughout their time at London Pathway College, students will benefit from dedicated academic support and a carefully designed curriculum that prepares them for the demands of higher education and long-term academic success. This launch marks the beginning of a transformative educational journey, rich with opportunity and personal growth for every student.”
Meanwhile, Jonathan Sandling, principal of the University of Portsmouth London campus, said the new pathway college enhances the university’s commitment to widening access and inclusion. He described it as a valuable foundation that supports students in taking the next step toward undergraduate or postgraduate study.
The University of Portsmouth opened its London campus in Waltham Forest in early 2024 in partnership with global property investment and development group Northchild Group, welcoming both international and domestic students.
The University of Portsmouth has welcomed students from over 110 countries in total, and stakeholders at the event highlighted how the new pathway college offers international students a unique opportunity to experience the vibrancy of the UK’s capital while still enjoying a local, community-focused environment.
Libby Pearson, pathway director at LPC Pathway, described Waltham Forest as an incredibly diverse and dynamic borough – an ideal setting for a forward-thinking educational model.
She highlighted the college’s innovative approach to delivery, including block teaching and state-of-the-art learning environments, as key components that enhance the student experience. But for her, it’s the strong sense of civic connection and community engagement that truly resonates with students.
“We have very close links with the community. We work closely with the borough and we also work closely with employees. Our students, from the minute they start at the pathway college or the university, have career opportunities that I think a lot of other students don’t have, even [elsewhere] in the city.”
Pearson also emphasised the college’s full integration with the University of Portsmouth, describing it as a “new breed of pathway” where students are not just preparing for university – they are already part of it.
Kai Liu, chief operating officer at UoP London and director of strategic partnerships at Northchild Group, echoed the importance of local engagement. He emphasised that students will benefit from a deeply immersive experience that connects them with the surrounding community – something he feels international students need.
Looking ahead, Liu also revealed plans to strengthen career outcomes further.
“We will also build an industry-placement pathway for the students in the future to help them get a good job after they have finished their studies,” he told The PIE News.
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