College secures international quality standard reaccreditation

Derby College Group is celebrating after successfully retaining an international quality standard, recognising the way it delivers information, advice and guidance services to its learners.

The Matrix Standard is for organisations that deliver information, advice and/or guidance (IAG).

The college achieved reaccreditation after being assessed on the support it provides across all its colleges at The Roundhouse, Joseph Wright Centre, Broomfield Hall and Ilkeston Community College.

Helen Jefferson, the college’s director of services for students, said: “IAG is integral to everything that we do – focusing on comprehensive support and on careers not courses to ensure that all of our students have a clear pathway to their future goals.

“We are delighted to successfully achieve our Matrix Standard accreditation again, this demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that our learners, customers and the wider community have access to high-quality advice and guidance to support their learning goals.”

The assessor’s report particularly commended the cross-college approach to the IAG standard, a strong cultural awareness of wellbeing, a strong energy that is focused on enhancing their overall careers and a creative approach to working with technology.

It stated: “Equity, diversity, and inclusion are highly valued in dealings with students and there is a strong commitment through the organisation to the importance of high-quality IAG for all.

“They continue to reach out to build aspirations through their increasing connection with schools. Pathways to Working Life is about preparing for the idea of work or academic progression. Students are offered the opportunity for supported internships and work experience placements.”

Helen said: “Our students come first and to receive such fantastic feedback acknowledging this is incredibly gratifying.

“The award of the Matrix Standard is an endorsement of the hard work of the team as they have helped thousands of students of all ages and circumstances over the years to see their goals become a reality – whether they have gone on to university, had an apprenticeship, started work or set up a business.”

Roger Chapman, head of the Matrix Standard service, which is managed by The Growth Company on behalf of the Department for Education, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Derby College Group, and I would like to congratulate the team on their success.

“We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available.

“The Matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas.

“With their accreditation success, Derby College Group is working to provide the best possible support to their clients.”