Building on progress, together

This is always an important and uplifting time of year for our University community. The publication of the National Student Survey results gives us an opportunity to pause, reflect and recognise the collective effort that sits behind the student experience at Manchester.

Most importantly, I want to say a very sincere thank you.

Our NSS results show another year of improvement, with positivity increasing across all three Faculties and in many of the areas we have been focusing on together. That progress is testament to the care, creativity and commitment of colleagues right across our community.

What is particularly encouraging is that we are seeing improvements in areas where we have listened carefully to our students and worked collectively to make meaningful change. Behind every survey response is a student telling us something about their experience, and those insights are invaluable in helping us understand what is working well and where we must continue to improve.

We should be proud of the progress we have made, while recognising that there is more to do. Our students have high expectations of us, as they should. As colleagues across the sector continue to raise the bar, we will keep challenging ourselves to learn, improve and deliver the outstanding experience our students deserve.

What gives me real confidence is the commitment I see every day from colleagues who are continually looking for new ways to enhance teaching, learning and student support. Student experience is not owned by one team or one role. It is shaped through thousands of interactions throughout a student’s time at Manchester, and every one of us has a part to play.

A reminder of why this work matters

Over the past couple of weeks, we have also been celebrating our Summer Graduations 2026. Graduation is always one of the most joyful moments in our academic year, offering a chance to reflect on all that our students have achieved and on the many ways colleagues have supported them on that journey.

One of the highlights for me has been following our graduation campaign and hearing from Anna, Wafia and Emilia. I loved listening to them reflect on their time at Manchester and on what their University experience has meant to them.

What stayed with me was how personal their stories felt. Alongside their achievements, they spoke warmly about the people, conversations and moments that had shaped their experience. It was a powerful reminder that the work we do has a real and lasting impact on our students’ lives.

If you have not yet had the chance to watch the videos, I would really encourage you to do so. They are uplifting, inspiring and a wonderful celebration of our graduates and of the colleagues who have supported them along the way.

As we approach the end of July, I know many colleagues will be looking forward to a well-earned break after another busy academic year. If you are taking some time away, I hope you have the chance to rest, recharge and spend time doing the things you enjoy. For those continuing to support students, colleagues and preparations for the year ahead over the summer, thank you for everything you continue to do.

I wish you all a restful and enjoyable summer.

Jenn
Vice-President for Teaching, Learning and Students