2024/25 Student Survey: Reflection and Response

We are delighted to present this report of the 2024/25 Student Survey.

Thanks to students who took the time to complete the survey - this is a great service to the whole Union Family. Our goal for next year’s report is for a 50% or higher participation in feedback.

As a school, we want to take time to reflect on what has been indicated in the answers to the questions. This brief response will give an indication of how we are continuing to grow in and develop in order to serve our students well. We do this because we value each student and we want them to know that they are part of the whole Union family. We do this in the light of our Union values. As we delight in God, we want to grow in Christ together so that we may serve His church and His world well.

Summary

 Overall satisfaction remains very high at 97% which compares well with the previous 2 years (95%, 91%). The data in every sub category indicates high levels of satisfaction.

Student comments confirm the wide level of satisfaction, with particular emphasis on expressing appreciation for the hard work of the whole team resulting in growth in knowledge, understanding and spiritual formation. This is a great encouragement. 

Notable strengths include:

i. The teaching and learning opportunities
ii. Personal and Ministry formation

Categories for further exploration and comment include:

i. Organisation and communication including Classter and Union Cloud
ii. Student Orientation
iii. Student Engagement

Response to the report including Action Points

The overwhelming levels of satisfaction are extremely encouraging, but will not lead to complacency. We are very aware that the introduction of the new MA programme and the redesigned GDip need to take student feedback into consideration. Previous comments have informed the new structure of the GDip.

The concerns expressed have not surprised the UST team.

• We continue to address and improve the induction and orientation for students with the development of more online resources and increased pro-active personal contact with learning communities, especially early in the academic year. We hope that this early investment will pay dividends later in the year.

• An audit of marking was already underway at the time of the survey and we hope that this will continue to ensure rigour, fairness and clarity when feeding back to students.

• The provost has recently responded to requests for clarity about UST’s position on the role of women.

Read the full survey here: