University praised for further education, skills and apprenticeship provision

The University of Derby has retained its ‘Good’ rating for its further education, skills and apprenticeship provision following a recent inspection from Ofsted.

Inspectors rated the provision ‘Good’ in all areas, praising the organisation for its welcoming and nurturing environment.

They also recognised that training for apprentices “prepares them well for their next steps and future careers” and that programmes are developed aligned to local industry needs.

The University of Derby delivers further and higher education at the university itself, Buxton & Leek College and the Nuclear Skills Academy in Derby, both of which are part of the University of Derby group.

This includes around 2,500 apprenticeship students, across both further and higher education.

During the visit, which took place in December, the inspectors spoke to staff and students across all the three institutions.

It was the first time the university’s provision was assessed under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, which evaluates how well it meets local, regional, and national skills needs, including partnerships with stakeholders.

Inspectors highlighted teachers’ subject expertise, and that leaders and managers carefully consider the national, regional, and local context when developing courses to ensure students are work ready.

In addition, the inspectors recognised the “welcoming and supportive environment”, with staff described as being ‘nurturing’ with mutually respectful relationships with students and apprentices, while students were acknowledged for taking pride in their work, with most who complete their courses moving on to the next level of study or into employment.

Professor Keith McLay, the university’s deputy vice chancellor, said: “As an applied university, we are committed to delivering curricula that meets the needs of industry, and it is pleasing that the inspectors have recognised our work in this area.

“It is crucial that we develop a pipeline of student and graduate talent who are confidently equipped to meet the challenges of the future, and we are proud to see that highlighted in the report.

“At the university, we strive to foster an environment that empowers our students and apprentices, providing them with the relevant experience, skills and knowledge to excel in their studies and succeed in the workplace.”