Peer-led learning contributes to outstanding student experience

University case study featured by Government regulator
Female student at a PALS training day

The University of Plymouth’s holistic approach to peer-led learning is featured in a case study published by the Government’s Office for Students (OfS) this week.
The independent regulator of higher education in England has revealed summary statements from the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) panel, alongside the submissions made by universities and colleges and their students.
In September 2023, the University of Plymouth was rated TEF Gold across the board . Now, its work with students to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment is featured as one of six case studies the OfS is using to showcase excellence.
The regulator reflects on four of the University’s projects that have been viewed as outstanding:
Each of them enhances students’ transition into higher education.

Developing a peer-led approach to learning has been transformative for our students, enabling them to enjoy greater confidence, improving their engagement, and engendering a real sense of belonging – all of which have contributed to a great student experience here.

We are every bit as focused on ensuring our students thrive as people during their time with us, as ensuring they receive a high-quality education and develop skills that will support them in their lives and professional careers. I’m delighted our longstanding work in this area has been recognised as something that makes our University so successful. 
This is a key part of why we were awarded Gold ratings across the board in the latest round of the TEF, which puts the University of Plymouth in the top 20% of providers. And we are in good company – it is also very satisfying to see many of our partner colleges and fellow institutions awarded gold and silver ratings, which make the South West the best-ranked region in the country to study, overall.

John CurnowProfessor John Curnow
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Education and Student Experience

The OfS evaluates universities through the TEF, which gives an overall rating as well as two underpinning ratings – one for the student experience and one for student outcomes – across three ratings categories signifying increasing degrees of excellence from Bronze, through to Silver and Gold.
At the time of writing, no university or college in South West England has been awarded less than a Silver.
Falcon spirit