Student Services
Professional student services may offer both academic development and
pastoral support to students. The majority of students do not, however,
utilise these services. In the first instance they prefer to talk to
friends and family. It is nevertheless reassuring to students and their
families to know that the relevant services exist – even if many are
unaware of the kinds of support their HEI provides.
Student services
are most effective when they are connected to the wider student
experience. This includes locating of services within academic
departments, schools or faculties; and providing links to services via
the academic tutoring or advising system. A partnership between
academics, professional services and students is key to an effective
learning environment.
Liz Thomas Associates can work with you to
review any aspect of your student service provision, and develop policy,
staff and practice to enhance the student experience.
Relevant publications
Woodfield, R. and Thomas, L (2012)
Male students: Engagement with academic and pastoral support services.
London: Equality Challenge Unit.
http://www.ecu.ac.uk/publications/male-students-engagement-with-academic-and-pastoral-support-services/
Thomas, L. et al (2002) Student Services Project: Effective
Approaches to Retaining Students in Higher Education. London: DfES.
Thomas, L. (2012) Building student engagement and belonging at a
time of change in higher education. London: Paul Hamlyn Foundation
Thomas, L. and Hixenbaugh, P. (eds) (2006) Personal tutoring in
higher education. Stoke-on-Trent: Trentham Books Ltd.
Relevant experience
Liz has worked with a number of
universities to review and revise partnership approaches to student
success, involving student services, academic units, students’
organisations and others. This has included examining relevant
institutional policy frameworks, exploring practical solutions and
appropriate forms of staff development.