22nd June 2017
University Centre South Devon (UCSD) has been awarded the highest rating of ‘Gold’ under the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), a system for recognising excellent teaching and learning in higher education.
The TEF assessment process is delivered by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). The framework assesses higher education institutions against criteria including drop-out rates and progression to highly skilled employment and is part of the government’s plans for raising standards in higher education. It also gives students more information so that they can make informed decisions when deciding which university to attend.
The report commends UCSD for its strong student engagement and for recognising that the student voice is critical and is considered during the early stages in the delivery of modules. It highlights the excellent employability support on offer to students, with focus on ensuring that all students achieve positive outcomes post study. The report also praises UCSD for its excellent educational culture, ensuring that staff have development opportunities to support them in delivering excellent higher education teaching.
Alastair Wilson, Higher Education Manager and Academic Registrar at UCSD said, “Receiving the TEF Gold rating is further endorsement of the high standards of teaching, learning and support delivered at UCSD. It builds on the successful review of our higher education provision by the Quality Assurance Agency in Devon and Cornwall completed in 2015. We value the TEF as an effective mechanism for evaluating the standards required to deliver an outstanding higher education provision.”
Stephen Criddle, Principal, said “This is really great recognition for the College, with the report noting our excellent educational culture, exemplary processes, strong student engagement and excellent employability support in particular. I am delighted for all staff involved in our increasing Higher Education work and for future students who will benefit from our gold medal approach”
All of the degrees at UCSD are delivered in partnership with Plymouth University, including a range of both foundation degrees and full honours bachelor’s degrees in various specialisms, leading to fantastic employment opportunities in the South West and beyond. The curriculum is developed with employers to ensure individuals develop relevant skills for the local market. The continued growth of the provision is testament to UCSD’s status as a leading provider of higher education study in the South West.
UCSD is continuously developing and improving new and existing courses and pathways to jobs at all levels with even more possibilities for the future as it hopes to secure foundation degree awarding powers.
For more information on the Teaching Excellence Framework please email [email protected] or call 08000 213181.
Alternatively, come along to our Open Day on Friday 18th August 10.00am-4.00pm at University Centre South Devon, Long Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EJ.