An evidence-based approach to re-engaging students by re-framing support for success

Abstract

Abstract

Improving student retention and engagement is a high priority for the sector. This study presents an approach adopted within a large Academic School to re-engage students who might otherwise have been withdrawn from the system. The work presented contributes useful knowledge in two areas: firstly, in recognising the potential of re-engagement using a connected triage approach (forming effective partnerships between the student, the academic team and central guidance). Secondly, it found that 68% of students identified at potential risk of withdrawal had multiple intersections of protected characteristics.  The three highest characteristics were found to be non-traditional entry qualifications, students with traditionally low participation rates (Polar 4 quintiles 1&2) and students from the most deprived neighbourhoods (IMD quintiles 1&2). The work conducted in this study enables at risk students to be identified earlier; hence affording more targeted support plans to be put in place to support their learning journey when appropriate.

Keywords: retention, engagement, withdrawal, evidence-based research, protected characteristics