Going for gold

Universities across the region are celebrating after achieving the highest possible gold rating in a newly launched excellence assessment.

Published by the Higher Education Funding Council for England the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) recognises UK university teaching quality for the first time.

Universities taking part have been accessed by an expert panel in three areas: teaching quality; the learning environment and the educational and professional outcomes achieved by students.

Students and staff at the Hugh Baird University Centre were celebrating after receiving a gold rating for their higher education provision.

When finding out what students themselves thought about the centre, the panel’s report indicated exceptional levels of satisfaction in relation to support and assignment feedback.

Colette Mawdsley, dean of higher education at the Hugh Baird University Centre, said: “Receiving the TEF gold award is a fantastic achievement. It is testament to the hard work undertaken by teaching staff at the university centre and those who from across the college who support our learners on their journey.”

“We believe that university level study is for all and we are proud to be working with many learners who will be the first in their family to gain a university degree.”

“Here at the Hugh Baird University Centre we have a consistent culture of self-improvement for both staff and students and outstanding levels of student engagement. This generates a great sense of community between students, staff and employers. I am extremely delighted that this was recognised by the panel in their report.”

Liverpool Hope University, Edge Hill University and The City of Liverpool College also received gold ratings.

Liverpool John Moores University and the University of Chester both received silver awards, while The University of Liverpool and Southport College were awarded the bronze rating.