Presentation
Following national attention on the effectiveness of wellbeing interventions and the role of analytics, this session shares University of Staffordshire’s practical approach to designing and implementing a model for centralised student support.
This session outlines how cross-functional teams were established to lead this work, and the key contributors, Vanessa and Kirstie, will demonstrate how they shaped and embedded the project. It'll explore the methodology adopted, focusing on how data, insight, and frontline expertise were combined to move beyond predictive analytics toward more responsive, relationship-based interventions.
Attendees will gain insight into how support needs were identified across the student lifecycle, including the challenges of translating data into meaningful action. The session will present key findings from the work, highlighting both the impact achieved and the limitations encountered, particularly in balancing data-led approaches with human-centred support.
Practical guidance will be provided throughout, enabling delegates to consider how similar approaches can be adapted and implemented within their own institutional contexts.
Christina Matthews is Executive Director of Student Life at University of Staffordshire, with strategic responsibility for student success, wellbeing, and the transformation of student support and professional services. She has led the development of integrated, data-informed service models that align analytics, early intervention, and relationship-based practice to improve retention, completion, and graduate outcomes.
Working in partnership with TASO and other sector bodies, Christina has contributed to national research examining the effectiveness of wellbeing interventions and the role of analytics in identifying and supporting students. This work has highlighted both the potential and limitations of predictive approaches, reinforcing the importance of embedding data within holistic, student-centred support frameworks.
Christina’s current work focuses on delivering an institution-wide, outcomes-driven model of student support, integrating wellbeing, engagement, and employability to ensure students are supported not only to succeed during their studies, but to transition effectively into graduate employment.
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https://taso.org.uk/libraryitem/report-improving-student-wellbeing-using-analytics/?utm_source=The+C
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christina-matthews-2225b033
As Student Engagement and Experience Manager at University of Staffordshire, Kirstie oversees the “front door” to Student Services, including attendance, engagement, service support administration, disability & inclusion, international support, scholarships & bursaries, and mental health & wellbeing. Previously, Kirstie has shaped frontline service delivery and championed digital‑first, multi‑channel student engagement. Her career spans senior roles in student engagement & experience, timetabling, data performance, planning and student success across FE, HE and UTC settings.
:
https://taso.org.uk/libraryitem/report-improving-student-wellbeing-using-analytics/?utm_source=The+C
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kirstie-brookes-0274529a
Vanessa is Head of Education Research & Evaluation at University Staffordshire and has held a range of roles across UK higher education, developing a strong focus on research and evaluation to support widening participation and enhance the student experience. She has delivered or supported independent evaluations for organisations including the Department for Education, Teach First, the Gatsby Foundation and several local authorities. She has a particular interest in survey design and has developed, adapted and validated instruments to support robust programme evaluation and insight.
At the University of Staffordshire, Vanessa works to strengthen the use of evidence in decision-making to support an excellent student experience.
:
https://taso.org.uk/libraryitem/report-improving-student-wellbeing-using-analytics/?utm_source=The+C
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vanessa-dodd
