Impact and evaluation

Evaluation framework

Evidence informed practice and robust evaluation are powerful tools to support effective intervention design and decision-making. The Widening Access and Student Success team have developed this Evaluation Framework, which is integral to delivering the University’s Widening Access and Student Success Strategy, by ensuring that the impact of interventions is thoroughly evaluated and measured.

Closely aligned with evaluation priorities outlined in the University’s Office for Students (OfS) regulated Access and Participation Plan (APP), the framework supports the development, implementation, and dissemination of evaluation outcomes across the University.

The evaluation framework provides a structured approach to evaluating interventions aimed at widening access, enhancing the student journey (continuation, completion, attainment, and progression) and addressing barriers to equity of opportunity. The framework also ensures we adhere to OfS regulations and Transforming Access and Student Outcomes in Higher Education (TASO) recommendations.

Evaluation Framework Diagram
1. Diagnose
Research effective practice to address the gap or issue to achieve the desired impact and outcomes.
2. Design
Design your programme, including your evaluation plan, following a Theory of Change approach.
3. Deliver
Deliver your programme and collect any required evaluation data.
4. Evaluate
Collate data and evaluate your programme according to your evaluation plan, utilising appropriate analysis methods.
5. Learn
Determine the impact of your programme.
6. Review and Share
Review whether the programme is continued, amended, stopped or rolled out wider. Share your learning with relevant stakeholders.

Annual Impact Report

We’re proud of the work we do to support students from underrepresented backgrounds into and through university. A summary of our evaluation findings and impact from 2024/2025 can be accessed here via our Annual Impact Report.

Regional networks

North West Widening Participation Research and Evaluation Group

The North West Widening Participation Research and Evaluation Group was established by Edge Hill University in July 2019. The group is open to North West institutions and Uni-Connect colleagues who have an active role in ensuring that widening participation work (across access, success and progression) is research and evidence informed, and effectively evaluated, in line with OfS and TASO expectations.

The group meet at least three times per academic year, during these meetings evaluation approaches and findings from members’ access, success and progression related interventions are presented. Processes such as evaluation planning and ethics are discussed, and effective practice and lessons learnt are shared. In the meeting, members provide advice, constructive feedback, and guidance on evaluation practices in an informal peer review manner.

North West Student Success Group

The North West Widening Participation Student Success Group was established by Edge Hill University in January 2024. The group is open to North West institutions who have an active role in supporting the success (continuation, completion, awarding and progression) of students from backgrounds traditionally unrepresented in Higher Education.

The group meet at least three times per academic year, to discuss topics relevant to student success in a widening participation context. The group provides an open, honest and supportive environment for WP student success practitioners to present on examples of effective practice, strategic approaches to WP student success, policy and procedure changes and challenges that impact the sector.

To enquire about joining either the Evaluation and Research or Student Success Group, please email [email protected].