ID143 Keele: The University that serves the students of today and the future

The Idea

Students are navigating a significant cost of living crisis, which requires the University to refresh how it approaches every stage of the student journey. To remain relevant and competitive, Keele must ensure that students (both current and future) are genuinely at the heart of everything we do. 

The University now has a valuable opportunity to define what it wants to be known for in an increasingly crowded higher education landscape. A powerful and unifying objective for the new Strategy should be to position Keele as the University that serves the students of today and tomorrow. If fully realised, this ambition would give Keele a distinctive and sustainable market position for years to come. 

Embedding this objective as a core strategic pillar would align the entire institution behind a shared purpose. Several of the GSRA generated Strategic ideas, such as enhancing online and part‑time provision and improving the campus experience for working students, naturally contribute to this direction. Every area of the University can play a role in achieving this ambition by integrating it into annual planning, appraisals, and our collective commitment to delivering excellent service.

Why This Idea Should Be Considered

Keele has genuine strengths, yet its national and international profile remains modest. Prioritising a bold objective to become the University for today’s and tomorrow’s students would provide long‑term focus and collective commitment across the institution. This emphasis would enable Keele to meet the evolving needs of both prospective and current students, improving the student journey and creating lifelong advocates within our alumni community. Enhancing the student experience would support key league tables such as the NSS, driving a positive cycle of reputation and recruitment. Building around real student needs will also attract academic and commercial partners aligned with our values. 

How We Would Implement This Idea

To bring this idea to life, the University should: 

• Establish this objective as a visible, shared commitment for all staff, embedded at every level of the institution. 
• Integrate it into strategic planning, departmental objectives, and individual appraisals so everyone considers how their work enhances services for current and future students. 
• Undertake structured work to clearly identify and understand the evolving needs and expectations of future students. 
• Actively champion and celebrate best practice through internal communications, University news, and staff awards to reinforce a culture that prioritises exceptional student‑focused service.

What Success Would Look Like

Success would be demonstrated through measurable enhancements across the University. Keele would see improved rankings and develop a reputation as the University of choice. Keele will be known not only for supporting students but also as an attractive institution to work for, work with, partner with, and invest in. A stronger profile and reputation would lead to increased student recruitment, higher income, and a more vibrant, year‑round campus environment. Progress would be tracked at both institutional and local levels, enabling the University to adapt its approach as the external environment evolves and ensuring continued alignment with student needs throughout the Strategy’s lifespan.