Hartpury University’s Innovation, Careers and Enterprise (ICE) Centre and Hartpury College have been accredited to the matrix Standard, demonstrating the high quality of information, advice, and guidance (IAG) given to its 4,500-strong student population.
Hartpury College has maintained the matrix accreditation it has held since 2010, but this review extended the scope for matrix to include information and guidance services provided through the Innovation, Careers and Enterprise (ICE) Centre at Hartpury University.
The embedding of careers and enterprise within all academic areas was recognised as a key strength during the assessment. Both institutions were applauded for their commitment to a ‘clear employability agenda’ and an intent to support its students with the skills they need to meet industry requirements.
This was also reflected in the latest employability data where 97% of Hartpury University graduates were in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2022) and 98% of Hartpury College students progress to employment, university or further study (Hartpury College 2022).
The assessment praised Hartpury’s strong industry partnerships with over 3,000 employers that help to provide placement and career opportunities for both college and university students.
The ease in which students can access ICE Careers Consultants to help with UCAS applications and CVs, as well as Placement Co-ordinators who can assist with work placements, was noted more than once in the report summary.
Support for students in other areas featured too, including wellbeing and counselling, student finance, and learning support for those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Commenting on the award, Simon Spooner - Head of Innovation, Careers and Enterprise Centre at Hartpury said: “I’m delighted with the outcome of the review, and it reflects the hard work and dedication that the various careers and student services teams have put in when it comes to delivering information and guidance, a real Hartpury team effort.
“It’s particularly pleasing to see that staff and students alike reported positively about their experience of ICE and its contribution to supporting college and university students as they prepare for the world of work. Our student-centred approach is evident in much of the feedback and I’m glad that students appear well informed on how, when, and where to access the support and guidance they require.”
Roger Chapman, Head of the matrix Service for The Growth Company said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Hartpury, and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available. The matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas. With their accreditation success, Hartpury is working to provide the best possible support to their clients.”
Information and support for students is continually updated considering external factors such as the pandemic or cost of living crisis that is currently having an impact on people across the country. Students can learn more about the support Hartpury is providing here.
