Hugh Baird University Centre gets highest possible national rating
Students and staff at the Hugh Baird University Centre are celebrating after receiving a Gold rating for their higher education provision from a newly launched Government scheme.
The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) was introduced to provide evidence about the performance of the higher education sector in the UK. Through the issuing of Gold, Silver or Bronze awards, the scheme will provide students with a picture of excellence in higher education teaching and learning.
The TEF awards were decided by an independent panel of experts including academics, students and employer representatives. Drawing on national data, and evidence submitted by each university or college, the TEF measures excellence in three areas: teaching quality, the learning environment and the educational and professional outcomes achieved by students.
The TEF Gold award is valid for three years and in their summing up, the independent panel who assessed the Hugh Baird University Centre commented that “students achieve consistently outstanding outcomes, with many students progressing to highly skilled employment.”
In addition, the panel noted that the work undertaken by the University Centre at Hugh Baird College vastly improves the life chances of students living in the College’s immediate locality.
Assessors also commented on a curriculum that at the heart of its design was addressing the skills agenda set out by the Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership.
When finding out what students themselves thought about the Hugh Baird University 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.”
Phillip Walton, who is the University Centre’s Student Governor, said:
“Studying at the Hugh Baird University Centre is a unique and individualised experience better suited to a student who prefers smaller and more open lectures."
“It has also saved me a considerable amount of money as I have lived at home but have still achieved a highly regarded qualification.”
“When studying higher education at the Hugh Baird University Centre, you are treated as if you are at uni and I can honestly say you receive a university experience. It’s just on a smaller more intimate scale where you feel valued and supported.”
“Speaking on behalf of all the student body at the University Centre, I would like to congratulate the staff for achieving this national quality indicator. It is thoroughly deserved.”
