May, G and Pickles, R (2026) 'Access & participation plan: student retention literature review.' Learning Innovation, 1.
Abstract
Student retention is a critical metric utilised by universities, colleges, and governments. As a concept, retention – student reenrolment per academic year – relates closely to England’s Office for Students’ B3 metrics of continuation and completion. Research shows that social and cultural capital affect student outcomes in higher education. Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often have lower social and cultural capital than their counterparts, which can create barriers in higher education. Not to say underrepresented student success is not probable, but it is linked to socioeconomic position, capital and a subjective belief in oneself. This review examines how retention interacts with capital, sense of belonging, support mechanisms, and academic success. We explore how a sense of belonging, through interpersonal relationships, social interaction, and feeling valued, impacts a student’s desire to persist and overall continuation rates. Studies show that underrepresented students’ retention rates increase when they feel a sense of belonging. Alarmingly, these students are more likely to report lower levels of belonging than their peers. Positive induction, transition, and on-course support for social belonging must be implemented to support those most at risk of non-continuation. We then explore how the social and academic variables of student life interconnect in complex ways. Structural barriers create uneven access to academic skills support, with those most in need least likely to engage. We recognise, in turn, that intersectional identities and holistic support must be linked to provide meaningful, personalised support attuned to cultural and social needs, social justice issues, and the inherent prejudices operating within university systems.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Keywords: | student retention, belonging, academic skills, induction, transition |
| Divisions: | Professional Services |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Jun 2026 10:12 |
| Last Modified: | 19 Jun 2026 10:13 |
| URN: | https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/17847 |
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