Understanding a whole institution approach to widening participation

This project sought to improve understanding of what a successful 'whole institution approach' to widening participation looks like. It aimed to: enable OFFA to provide greater clarity and guidance to universities and colleges about how to develop and sustain such an approach; improve understanding of the most effective approaches to widening participation; and support universities and colleges to be more evidence-led in their approaches to improving access. The overall goal of the project was to improve understanding around how a whole-institution approach is understood, realised and sustained in different contexts, so that universities and colleges can develop and implement effective ways to maximise the potential benefit of their widening participation work.

The project concluded in October 2017. It published: a final report outlining the background to this research, the methodology and theoretical approach, findings and recommendations, and evidence from the case studies and guidance about how to implement changes in your own context; a summary report with recommendations providing an accessible overview of the research; and an implementation and evaluation guidance and toolkit designed to be quick references for those seeking to develop a structure and culture of widening participation across their institution.

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