ESSEX University’s focus on engaging and consulting with its students has won it a commendation from a higher education watchdog.

The Quality Assurance Agency has published a report confirming the university met all its expectations.

The report praised the university’s peer mentoring and tutor system, as well as staff development programmes and quality research environments.

Aletta Norval, pro-vice chancellor, said: “This report reconfirms our commitment to excellence in providing our students with high-quality learning, supported by strong extra-curricular opportunities.

“Our focus has been to place students at the heart of everything we do, and it is really pleasing students have highlighted their close collaborative relationship with us.”

The review also praised the way the university listens to the student voice.

President of the students’ union Chantel Le Carpentier said: “This is a fantastic result and proves that Essex does listen to students.

“The students’ union has been working closely with the university to strengthen opportunities and meet student needs, and the union itself is committed to being the most student-centred organisation.”