Gold standard for Myerscough’s higher education programmes

The award has been made by the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) in recognition of the quality of provision in the College’s foundation degree, honours degree and masters study programmes. The TEF Panel judged that Myerscough delivers consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students. It is of the highest quality found in the UK.

Myerscough is one of only land-based institution in the North to achieve the gold TEF award, meaning Myerscough’s standards are among the highest in the UK.

The TEF report on University Centre Myerscough goes on to say: ‘’Myerscough provides an excellent employer engagement strategy, leading to high rates of employment after graduation.

‘’There is a  highly-valued culture of personalised learning, including small class sizes and high levels of tutor  support, resulting in the highest levels of engagement for all students in order to acquire  knowledge, skills and understanding.’’

The aim of the TEF award is to provide learners with better information about higher education institutions they may wish to study at, as well as recognising and rewarding excellent teaching which meets the needs of industry.

A rating of gold means the institution has demonstrated the highest quality teaching standards and is consistently outstanding in its outcomes for students from all backgrounds, particularly in terms of retention and progression.

Other areas of excellence highlighted by the report include:

• Full-time student rates of progression to employment or further study are above the provider’s benchmark. Continuation rates are above the provider’s benchmark. Levels of student satisfaction are consistent with the provider’s benchmark for full-time students, and part-time student satisfaction with assessment and feedback is above the provider’s benchmark.
• A strategic approach to staff development, including a comprehensive teaching observation and an embedded culture that facilities scholarship and research for both staff and students.
• An outstanding approach to the development of physical and digital resources which enhance the student experience.

The TEF awards are decided by an independent panel of experts including academics, students and employer representatives. Drawing on national data, and evidence submitted by each university or college, the TEF measures excellence in three areas; teaching quality, the learning environment and the educational and professional outcomes achieved by students.

Chief Executive and Principal, Alison Robinson, said: “Our gold rating is a testament to the quality of our talented teaching staff and the excellent programmes we offer.

‘’Our students graduate not only with a qualification that is highly industry relevant, but with the skills they need to forge a successful career in their chosen field.

 “We do this by working closely with industry partners, to ensure we are preparing students who are fully ‘job ready’, across a wide range of sectors.’’

Mick Cottam, Assistant Principal Higher Education, said: ‘’Many congratulations to all those involved in the teaching and support areas for our HE provision”.

‘’This is a fantastic result for Myerscough and a reflection of the level of support we offer, as well as the student experience and the quality of our teaching.’’

‘’Learners choosing to study at University Centre Myerscough, as well as employers, can be assured that a degree programme with us is a guarantee of the very best level of education in the country.’’

The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) was introduced by the Government to build evidence about the performance of the UK’s world-class higher education sector, complementing the existing Research Excellence Framework with an analysis of teaching and learning outcomes. This is the second year for these awards, which are administered by the Office for Students (OfS).

Myerscough College and University Centre offers a range of degree programmes across the land-based and sport sectors, accredited by the University of Central Lancashire. Myerscough is amongst the top UK institutions in the sector for student satisfaction - helped by exceptional resources and a unique countryside location. 98% of Myerscough degree students progress to further study or employment.

Limited places are still available for study programmes beginning in September. For details and to apply, click here