National award for excellence underpins Leeds Trinity’s innovative approach to supporting graduate outcomes

The University’s pioneering Graduate Outcomes Tracking system, overseen by Careers+Placements, was recognised by the judges as a “clearly joined-up approach which thinks about what data and information students really need”.  

Developed in response to the limitations of retrospective Graduate Outcomes data, which restricted early intervention, the tracking system enables more timely and personalised support for students and graduates. The system builds a longitudinal picture of each student journey, starting from enrolment and developing throughout the student lifecycle.  

In final year, progression interviews embedded in our curriculum though personal tutorials, combined with direct engagement with Careers+Placements are used to map out each student’s intentions for the future, as well as any risks and barriers to their success. The dataset is continuously updated across the 15 months following graduation, creating a real-time projection of graduate outcomes. 

The approach reflects Leeds Trinity’s commitment to providing a tailored experience for students and graduates, including through innovative practices to identify learners who are most at risk of disengagement, so they can be supported in a targeted way.   

As a result, the progression gap between white and Global Majority students reduced from 10.7% in 2022 to 4% in 2023, the accuracy and reliability of graduate outcomes projections increased across the university, and staff and student experience improved significantly, by ensuring all activity is data-led, intentional, and embedded in day-to-day operations. 

Emily Timson, Director of Graduate Outcomes and Enterprise at Leeds Trinity University, said: “Winning the Enabling Excellence Award underpins our efforts to deliver Leeds Trinity’s vision of being a career-led university, ensuring our students receive the appropriate opportunities and interventions to progress into fulfilling careers.  

“Our Graduate Outcomes Tracking system is unique across the sector and has made a significant impact both on student success and staff experience, as teams can focus on individual student journeys more effectively, and we can be more strategic with our resource. I am so proud to see it recognised at national level. A huge thank you to colleagues who work tirelessly to deliver and develop this system.” 

Leeds Trinity graduates can have their say about their experience at university and next steps by filling in the Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey helps inform higher education policy and university league tables, offering an accurate view of graduate journeys within 15 months of completing their studies.