Redesigning Welcome, Induction and Transition: A Strategic Approach and Partnership

This case study focuses on the increasing role of student voice in shaping and developing an Institution-wide strategic approach towards Welcome, Induction and Transition at a UK Higher Education Institution since 2020. The case study examines how through partnership and collaboration between students and staff, year-round welcome maps onto the student journey, dovetailing at key points in the year where students have indicated that they most need support. What initially began as a project response to Covid-19 and the need to respond to student wellbeing and community needs when learning moved online, has been transformed into an embedded Institutional process, which enables the understanding of individual students’ profiles and routes into university and the ability to respond accordingly. Underpinned by pedagogical research, a strategic re-design of Welcome, Induction and Transition has led to a year-round approach that addresses institutional strategic objectives with respect to student access and success, equality, diversity and inclusion, creating increased opportunities for students to make connections that will enable them to succeed.