CUMBRIA'S only university has said that newly-released figures showing its lowest-ever dropout rates are 'a great result' for students on its campuses.

Fewer first-year students dropped out of courses at University of Cumbria last year than ever before, figures show – despite the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on higher education.

Figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency show that around 705 students aged under 21 began a full-time first degree course at University of Cumbria in 2019-20 – and 50 quit before the second year.

The deputy vice chancellor has said that the team at the University of Cumbria has worked hard throughout the pandemic to support students.

Professor Rob Trimble, deputy vice chancellor (Academic) at the University of Cumbria said: “This is a great result for our students.

"Across the University, we worked hard to support our students through the uncertainty and upheaval of the pandemic, with a particular focus on academic and financial support and mental health and well-being.

"It is great to see the positive impact of this supportive approach reflected in these figures.”   

Universities Minister Michelle Donelan welcomed the latest statistics, which showed the proportion of students dropping out of degree courses fell to a record low last year across the UK.