Bridging The Gap: PREPARE As A Collaborative Approach To First-Year Transition In A Widening Participation Context

Abstract

Targeted transition activities before tertiary education are crucial for equipping students with the skills, knowledge and resilience to succeed. Research by Morgan (2024) and Wonkhe (2024) highlights how structured pre-arrival support reduces transition-related anxiety, improves retention, and shapes realistic expectations.

Previously, our institution offered limited pre-enrolment support, primarily through summer schools. This fragmented provision left many students underprepared.  Recognising the need for a holistic approach, we developed PREPARE – a collaborative initiative involving the library, Academic Skills Hub, Students’ Union, Student Services, academic staff, Quality Transformation Unit, IT, and e-learning teams. It addresses academic, emotional, and social readiness.

PREPARE was informed by focus groups with current students, academic staff, and professional services, alongside a review of literature and sector research.  These inputs shaped a framework responsive to diverse student needs.

PREPARE comprises a seven-step framework: Pathway to Higher Education; Readiness for Academic Success; Emotional Wellbeing in Higher Education; Personal Growth and a Growth Mindset; Academic Writing and Communicating Ideas; Resilience and University Life; and Employability and Life Beyond University. It is delivered through self-paced e-learning tutorials, webinars, videos, and live workshops. PREPARE has been incorporated within our Access and Participation Plan 2025 - 26, for enhanced representation of underrepresented groups at the university over the next 5 years.

Ongoing evaluations—In order to ensure responsiveness and impact of PREPARE, this long-term collaborative project will incorporate student voice and staff feedback periodically taking a research informed approach.

PREPARE has already enhanced pre-arrival engagement and is expected to improve first-year outcomes. By embedding academic skills, wellbeing, and employability into a cohesive framework, PREPARE enables a smoother transition and better retention for student success. We believe this Vignette would add valuable insights to institutions striving to empower diverse learners and close equity gaps in the tertiary landscape offering practical solutions.