In its report published yesterday (28 August 2015), the QAA commended the University for its enhancement of student learning opportunities – the highest rating possible – and identified eight areas of good practice.

Commenting on the publication of the QAA’s report, University of Bedfordshire Vice Chancellor Bill Rammell said:

"This QAA review is a very positive and strong endorsement of the quality of Higher Education at this University. We are particularly pleased with the commendation of the enhancement of student learning opportunities, which demonstrates the priority we give to improving the student experience.

“With one commendation and eight areas of good practice identified, we are delighted that this is one of the best overall results in quality terms for any university under the new QAA review framework."

The team of QAA reviewers visited the University in June, as part of its remit to safeguard the public interest in the quality and standards of UK higher education. The review was carried out by experts from other universities and a student reviewer.

The review team judged that the University’s academic standards, the quality of its student learning opportunities and the quality of its information about learning opportunities all met UK standards.

Bill Rammell added:

“Coming soon after the latest National Student Survey confirms Bedfordshire as one of the top 10 universities in the country for improving the student experience, this is affirmation that the University continues to move forward, and that our commitment to putting students first and providing a truly transformational experience is being recognised.”

The successful review means that the University of Bedfordshire can display the QAA Quality Mark, indicating to UK and international students that the University meets national requirement for standards and quality.

 The eight areas of good practice at the University identified by the QAA review team are:

• The institution-wide commitment to enhancing students’ learning experience.
• The open and proactive approach taken by the University to seeking out, listening and responding to the taught student voice at all levels of the institution.
• The integrated, institution-wide, academic and pastoral support for taught students, which enables them to develop their academic, personal and professional potential.
• The overarching quality framework for course approval, delivery, monitoring and review, which supports staff in designing and enhancing curricula.
• The wide and in-depth range of informative and searchable information provided on the University website for a range of audiences.
• The institutional culture and support available to staff to develop and reflect on their learning and teaching practice.
• The accessible and comprehensive virtual learning environment, which is used extensively across the University and collaborative partners.
• The comprehensive arrangements in place to support collaborative partnerships, including clear governance and the effective support provided by account managers and Link Co-ordinators.