A Testament to Excellence in Higher Education

York St John University, a prestigious higher education institution based in the historic city of York, has recently received a “Good” rating in its recent Ofsted inspection. The inspection, which took place from the 12th to the 15th of March 2024, evaluated various aspects of the university’s apprenticeship programmes and concluded that York St John University excels in providing quality education, promoting positive behaviour and attitudes, fostering personal development, and demonstrating strong leadership and management. This blog delves into the key findings of the Ofsted report, highlighting the university’s commitment to excellence and the significant impact of its apprenticeship programmes.

A Snapshot of York St John University’s Apprenticeship Programmes

York St John University offers a diverse range of apprenticeship programmes, predominantly serving apprentices in Yorkshire, Humberside, and London. At the time of inspection, the university had 414 apprentices enrolled in eight apprenticeship standards. These programmes spanned levels 3 to 7, with most apprentices engaged in higher-level training such as data scientist, project manager, chartered manager, police constable, and senior leader apprenticeships. Additionally, the university provided specialised programmes in healthcare and laboratory science, ensuring a broad spectrum of opportunities for learners.

 

Promoting Fairness, Equality, and Inclusion

One of the most commendable aspects of York St John University, as noted by the Ofsted inspectors, is its strong emphasis on promoting fairness and equality of opportunity. Apprentices at the university are encouraged to challenge prejudice and contribute to a vibrant and inclusive culture where individuality is respected. This positive environment ensures that bullying and harassment are never tolerated, allowing apprentices to feel safe and protected both during training and at work.

The university’s commitment to inclusivity is further demonstrated through its support for apprentices’ personal health and well-being. Apprentices have access to work-based learning tutors who provide highly individualised support, helping them navigate any barriers they may face in their training. This support extends to specialist counselling services, available both in-person and online, covering mental and financial health matters. Consequently, apprentices feel well-supported and are better equipped to balance the demands of their training alongside their professional responsibilities.

Excellence in Teaching and Learning

The quality of education at York St John University was a standout feature in the Ofsted report. Lecturers and tutors at the university are highly qualified in their respective disciplines and bring contemporary insights into the sectors in which apprentices work. This expertise is crucial in providing apprentices with relevant and up-to-date knowledge, preparing them effectively for their future careers.

The university’s curriculum is meticulously planned and sequenced to ensure apprentices develop new knowledge and skills progressively over time. For instance, project management apprentices first learn theoretical principles before applying these concepts to practical scenarios. Similarly, data scientist apprentices build a solid foundation in mathematical models and statistical analysis before moving on to practical applications in later stages of their programme.

Lecturers employ varied teaching strategies to embed key concepts and deepen apprentices’ understanding. For example, data science lecturers use graphical representations of code to enhance comprehension and assign increasingly complex practical tasks to help apprentices apply their learning in real-world contexts. This approach not only reinforces technical skills but also encourages the use of precise technical language, making apprentices highly valuable to their employers.

Effective Assessment and Feedback

Assessment is another area where York St John University excels. Most lecturers use assessment effectively to check what apprentices know and can do. For example, police constable programmes utilise probing questions to test apprentices’ analytical skills, ensuring their responses are evidence-based and robust. Apprentices also complete frequent assignments, examinations, and presentations to demonstrate their progressive development.

The Ofsted report highlighted opportunities for urther enhancement at York St John University. It noted that refining assignment briefs could provide clearer guidance for apprentices, ensuring they have a precise understanding of their tasks. Additionally, enhancing the specificity of feedback will empower apprentices to make more targeted improvements, building on the already helpful and timely support they receive. Actions were already in place, and further monitoring and adjustments are being made.

Supporting Apprentices with Additional Needs

York St John University demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting apprentices with additional learning needs. Lecturers and tutors create clear and relevant learning plans to target support for these apprentices and ensure appropriate access arrangements are in place. As a result, apprentices with additional needs make good progress, achieving on par with their peers.

For those apprentices requiring functional English and mathematics qualifications, the university provides effective tuition and one-to-one support. Regular progress reviews ensure that apprentices are well-supported and make timely progress towards achieving their qualifications.

Embedding British Values and Social Responsibility

York St John University ensures that apprentices develop a well-rounded understanding of fundamental British values in the context of their workplace roles. For instance, senior leader and data scientist apprentices explore the rule of law concerning data vulnerability and the implications of artificial intelligence on data protection laws. This education fosters a sense of social responsibility and ethical awareness among apprentices.

Moreover, the university encourages apprentices to participate in outreach work and research projects, contributing to university-wide initiatives on social justice and ethical leadership.

Strong Leadership and Management

The leadership and management at York St John University received high praise from Ofsted inspectors. Leaders have a clear vision of providing transformative training opportunities and have designed ambitious apprenticeship pathways to enable apprentices to engage in degree-level study and realise their aspirations. This vision is supported by a robust engagement with employers, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and accessible.

Leaders and managers maintain good oversight of the quality of their provision, including subcontracted courses. They have been proactive in addressing historic issues with underperformance and have implemented rapid improvement plans where necessary. This responsive approach has resulted in higher retention rates and better outcomes for apprentices.

Governors at York St John University play a crucial role in maintaining high standards. They bring significant experience and knowledge to their roles, providing effective support and challenge to ensure continuous improvement.

Fostering Staff Development and Well-Being

York St John University is also committed to the professional development and well-being of its staff. Lecturers and tutors have access to a broad range of training opportunities, including one-to-one coaching and mentoring. Participation in academic research and membership of professional bodies further helps staff keep their knowledge and skills current.

Leaders have cultivated an environment where staff feel valued and supported. By addressing workload issues and implementing sensible actions to improve efficiency, the university ensures that staff are proud to be part of an organisation that prioritises their well-being.

Safeguarding and Future Improvements

The Ofsted report confirmed that safeguarding arrangements at York St John University are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all apprentices.

Looking ahead, the university has identified a few areas for improvement:

• Maintaining a strong focus on ensuring apprentices remain on their programmes and achieve well.
• Enhancing apprentices’ understanding of the risks they may face in their local communities and job roles.
• Encouraging apprentices to participate more actively in the extensive support available for their personal development.

Conclusion

York St John University’s recent “Good” rating from Ofsted is a testament to its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality education and training. The university’s focus on promoting fairness, equality, and inclusion, combined with its effective teaching strategies and robust support systems, ensures that apprentices are well-prepared for successful careers. The strong leadership and management, coupled with a dedication to staff development and well-being, further reinforce York St John University’s position as a leading institution in higher education. With a clear vision for the future and a commitment to continuous improvement, the university is well-equipped to continue delivering transformative training opportunities for its apprentices.