University receives glowing reviews from Ofsted and students

The University of Derby is celebrating after receiving glowing reviews from Ofsted for the standard of its teaching and from students for the overall educational experience it provides.

The university’s Initial Teacher Education programmes have recently been rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

And in the latest Uni Compare annual student review, Derby has rocketed up the rankings, jumping from 82nd to 15th overall.

The Ofsted inspection reviewed Primary, Secondary and Further Education, and judged the quality of education and training, leadership and management and overall effectiveness.

Inspectors in the report commended the “high quality placement learning” for trainees and noted that they are supported by “very well-trained mentors”.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor at the University of Derby, said: “As a future-focused institution, we are committed to empowering and supporting the next generation of teachers, equipping graduates with the skills, knowledge and experiences to make a positive impact on our communities.

“I am delighted that the latest Ofsted inspection recognises the work of University of Derby staff, and its stakeholders, in ensuring our students have access to fantastic high-quality learning opportunities, developing them to become future game-changers.”

Dr Sarah Charles, head of the Institute of Education at the University of Derby, said: “This is an excellent achievement.  We work year-round to ensure our students have exceptional preparation for their teaching career.

“We want our students to be confident, reflective and skilled teachers who make a difference to the lives of young people.

“This result is testimony to our belief in the transformational power of education.

“We champion social mobility for our trainees as well as the families and communities they serve.

“Central to this success is the commitment and support provided by our partner settings, particularly the excellent mentors who guide and challenge our students during their professional placements.”

The Uni Compare annual student review rankings are based on more than 31,000 unbiased reviews provided by students across the UK.

It aims to give future students a taste of what life is like at each university.

As well as being placed 15th overall, the University of Derby was ranked 5th for Course Quality, 4th for Employability and 16th for Accommodation.

In a statement, the university said: “Insights tell us that reviews from real students are one of the most important factors when making a university choice.

“We invited students at Derby to take part in this survey earlier this year.

“These contributions reflect a wide range of perspectives to give an in-depth and well-rounded view of each institution’s strengths.

“Students considered course content, teaching and support, and ranked the University of Derby within the top five UK universities for course quality.

“This is a reflection of the outstanding educational experience at Derby.

“Our excellent graduate employment rates and valuable links with industry, including local employers ensure we’re well placed to aid students looking ahead to their next steps.”