College’s higher education partner recognised on world stage

Education Partnership North East higher education delivery partner, the University of Cumbria, has been recognised as one of the top universities in the world for its quality education. 

The university ranked 8th out of a total of 676 participating institutions worldwide in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings and first in the UK for Quality Education Sustainment Development Goals, which measures their contribution to early years and lifelong learning, pedagogy, research and commitment to inclusive education. 

Northumberland College, part of Education Partnership North East, has worked closely with the University of Cumbria to develop higher education programmes such as its Foundation Degree Children’s Workforce Practice and BA (Hons) Childhood, Youth and Family Studies programmes, with the Impact Rankings reinforcing the quality of teaching delivery offered to students. 

Lesley Jobson, Programme Lead, said: “Working in partnership with the University of Cumbria over the past seven years to deliver our childhood degrees, as well as counselling and land-based courses has enabled our team at Northumberland College to continuously develop our practice in-line with other higher education institutions across the country. 

“A significant emphasis placed upon student-led teaching, learning and assessment across both the university and college has helped us to celebrate significant student achievement and progression. 

“I am delighted that the quality practices aligned to the University of Cumbria have been recognised at such a level and look forward to maintaining this further.”

The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings are designed to showcase the commitment of universities around the world to making a positive social and economic impact within their communities and globally, from providing inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting good health and wellbeing, to ensuring gender equality and taking action on climate change. 

By participating universities demonstrate the important role they’re playing in championing a better and more sustainable future. 

Professor Julie Mennell, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cumbria, added: “Given the university’s mission and values, we felt it was important to participate in these specific rankings to more accurately highlight the world class outcomes achieved by our students and staff. 

“Against the backdrop of the current worldwide crisis linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an opportunity for universities around the world to collaborate and help to refocus the global economic agenda on sustainable development in its truest sense. 

“The University of Cumbria is committed to creating a sustainable legacy and joining our colleagues around the world in championing a brighter and more equitable future.”