University Centre Reaseheath has been awarded Silver in the Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF) – proof that it delivers high-quality academic teaching and learning and excellent professional outcomes. It is also endorsement that Reaseheath consistently exceeds rigorous national quality requirements for UK higher education.

Introduced by the government to encourage excellence in teaching and a first-rate student experience, the TEF looks at what universities and colleges do in addition to meeting national quality benchmarks. Providers can receive provisional, bronze, silver or gold awards. The new results published today (Wednesday 19 June 2019), are aimed at helping prospective undergraduates to decide where to study for their degree.

The ratings are judged by an independent panel of students, academics, employer representatives and other experts. Conferring UCR’s Silver award, the TEF panel cited evidence of:

• A flexible, dynamic and personalised high-quality learning environment
• Programmes which incorporate elements of work-based learning, internship or other opportunities for students to gain valuable experience of work as part of their studies
• A focus on embedding learning in industry standard environments
• High levels of student engagement in campus industrial enterprises for developing practical skills and knowledge that are highly valued by employers
• The development of high levels of commitment to learning and study through the UCR Graduate Toolkit (formerly Keys to Success), a personal interactive portfolio involving partnerships between students, careers and wellbeing teams.

Peter Greenall, Assistant Principal and Dean of Higher Education, said: “I’m delighted that University Centre Reaseheath has been awarded silver in the 2019 TEF. This is external recognition of our efforts to provide an outstanding learning experience. It is also testament to the commitment of our Higher Education team to ensure we offer the best possible education and student experience by working in close partnership with our students to enhance our provision.

“Our Silver award endorses the high standards we deliver, and assures our students, employers and parents that UCR sits alongside some of the best providers in the country”.

Reaseheath has some of the best specialist facilities and resources in the UK, thanks to a recent £80 million investment across campus. These include a dual-purpose extension to University Centre Reaseheath, which also acts as an Employer Hub and creates a focal point where employers can discuss the opportunity to launch collaborative research and trials run by undergraduates. These projects directly benefit local businesses and the rural economy and can often lead to job offers after graduation.

Other opportunities beyond the curriculum, such as employability enhancement and internships, are regularly on offer due to Reaseheath’s close links with the industries it serves.

Principal and CEO Marcus Clinton said: “This is a significant achievement for University Centre Reaseheath. We are delighted that the wonderful teaching and support delivered by our HE teaching staff has been recognised and it is this strong support which enables students to achieve regardless of their background.”

Undergraduate Kerri-Anne Williams, who is in the second year of her Canine Behaviour and Training degree commented: “The teaching at University Centre Reaseheath is superb and the lecturers are always available for support. They have been so helpful throughout my studies, particularly during my research for my dissertation by recommending resources and giving guidance in lectures and tutorials.”

Read the results in full on the Office for Students website.