Middlesex academic helps shape national guidance on student success and belonging

12 October 2026

A group of students sit chatting in a work area with a desktop computer

Associate Professor Angela Scollan contributes to UK-wide guidance supporting students throughout higher education

A Middlesex academic has contributed to the development of new national guidance designed to help students achieve their potential throughout their higher education journey.

Dr Angela Scollan, Associate Professor in Early Childhood Studies in Middlesex University's

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Department of Education, was a member of a writing group established by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). The group developed guidance for Principle 10: Supporting Students to Achieve Their Potential, as part of the UK Quality Code for Higher Education. The QAA is the independent body responsible for safeguarding and enhancing quality and standards across UK higher education.

The new guidance explores how higher education providers can create environments that enable students to thrive academically, personally and professionally throughout their studies. It highlights the importance of student belonging, effective support at key transition points, equitable access to services, partnership working, clear communication and opportunities for students to engage beyond the formal curriculum.

“Student success is about much more than academic achievement alone. Students are most likely to flourish when they experience belonging, meaningful participation and coordinated support throughout their university journey. I was proud to contribute to this important and highly collaborative project, which reflects many of the values that underpin our work at Middlesex University.”

Dr Angela Scollan, Associate Professor in Early Childhood Studies, Middlesex University

The guidance aligns closely with Middlesex University's commitment to student belonging, inclusion and academic success. It reflects the work taking place across the University to create supportive learning environments that enable students from diverse backgrounds to succeed and thrive.

Dr Scollan has extensive experience in education, research and professional practice. She is Associate Professor in Early Childhood Studies and a member of the Centre for Educational Research and Scholarship (CERS) at Middlesex University. Her research and professional interests include children's rights, inclusive and sustainable pedagogy, student belonging, student experience and educational progression. She has led and contributed to major national and international initiatives and has published widely on young children, education, professional development and learner engagement.

Learn more about studying Early Childhood Studies at Middlesex University and the Centre for Educational Research and Scholarship.