INTO Queen's University Belfast wins praise from Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education

Centre commended for its effective management and enhancement of the quality of learning opportunities

(BELFAST): INTO Queen’s University Belfast, has received a positive review from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) following a recent assessment.

The review, conducted under the Educational Oversight-Exceptional Arrangements method, took place on February 28, 2023. A team of experts from QAA assessed the management of academic standards and the quality of learning opportunities at INTO Queen's.

The review panel, comprising QAA officers and independent reviewers, commended the Centre for its effective management and enhancement of the quality of learning opportunities.

One of the key features of good practice identified by the review panel was the inclusive academic and pastoral support provided by INTO Queen's. This support was recognized for enhancing the quality of the student learning experience.

“We are delighted that the hard work and dedication of our staff and the continuous enhancement of our offering and the support we provide to our students has received a positive recognition in the QAA review. We are committed to upholding academic standards and providing high-quality learning opportunities to our diverse student body,” said John Sykes, CEO of INTO University Partnerships.

INTO Queen's, a joint venture between Queen's University Belfast (QUB) and INTO University Partnerships, was established in 2009-10. The Centre offers a range of academic pathways and English language programs designed specifically to prepare international students for success upon progression to their Queen’s University degrees.

Every year, hundreds of students from over 30 nationalities enrol with INTO QUB on various academic pathway programmes.

As the awarding body, QUB, holds ultimate responsibility for academic standards and the quality of the provision at INTO Queen's LLP. The Centre operates in alignment with the university's business plan and quality assurance agreement.

The review expressed confidence in INTO Queen's LLP’s management of its responsibilities for academic standards as outlined in its contractual arrangements with its academic partner.

“We are delighted that INTO Queen's have achieved another positive review from QAA which highlights the high standard of teaching and the dedication of the team at the Centre.  While the report highlights the academic quality, we are pleased that QAA has highlighted the good practice in pastoral care at INTO Queen's, which enhances the quality of the student learning experience,” said Professor Margaret Topping, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) of QUB.

The review report highlighted the effective use of external reference points, such as the UK Quality Code for Higher Education and Subject Benchmark Statements, in the management of academic standards at INTO Queen's LLP. The Centre also utilizes external moderation, verification, and examining to ensure the assurance of academic standards.

The report recognized the strong collaboration between QUB and INTO Queen's LLP in maintaining academic standards and enhancing the quality of learning opportunities. The ongoing reviews and monitoring processes, including the Continuous Action for Programme Enhancement (CAPE) and the annual reviews conducted by the university, contribute to the continuous improvement of programs and the student learning experience.

“Transforming students’ academic and career success through winning university partnerships is the cornerstone of INTO’s approach to making international education accessible. Our partnership with Queen’s University Belfast is a clear example of how working in partnership on quality academic programmes combined with outstanding student support can provide an exceptional learning experience for international students and help them realise their full potential,” said Mr Sykes.

QUB, one of the UK’s leading universities, is known for its history, research and world-class education. The University is based in Northern Ireland's cosmopolitan capital, Belfast, widely recognized as an incredible place to live, learn and grow. It is currently undergoing a £700 million development, spending £350 million on improving facilities so far.

QUB fast facts:

• The prestigious university is part of the UK’s elite Russell Group of 24 research-intensive institutions.
• Joint 1st in the UK for research intensity in the Complete University Guide 2022.
• Ranked 24 in the UK with 13 subjects in the UK top 10 and 24 subjects in the UK top 20 in the Complete University Guide 2023.
• Ranked 198 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023.
• Ranked 85 in the world in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023.
• Ranked 18 in the world for international outlook in the Times Higher Education World Rankings 2023.
• Ranked 11th in the UK for career prospects in The Guardian University Guide 2023.

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