Widening Access and Student Success

The Widening Access and Student Success (WASS) team addresses barriers that inhibit academic progression. We promote student empowerment and equal opportunities. Many groups are underrepresented in Higher Education and even when they get there, they can face further obstacles to educational success. Factors that influence student outcomes include socio-economic status, access to resources and structural barriers.

Our Widening Access work targets primary and secondary aged learners. Our Student Success work is aimed at learners who study at the University. Students are selected based on where the data shows gaps in equality of opportunity in relation to access, success or progression.

At Herts, we have a strong record in increasing access and participation. This is evident in our student population and the proportion of students from underrepresented backgrounds. Our data also highlights existing and widening gaps which we are working to address. In our latest Access and Participation Plan (2020/21 – 2024-25 ), we draw on evidence and evaluations to identify where these gaps are widest. We share key findings about where we need to allocate resource and activity to achieve equality of opportunity and outcomes for all students.