The Bedford College Group is raising its game in the provision of Higher Education (HE), or degree level learning, by joining a national organisation dedicated to increasing HE in FE (Further Education).
The Mixed Economies Group (MEG) serves as a network for senior practitioners of HE in FE, enabling them to discuss policy and practice informally between regular termly meetings.
MEG carries out research on a regular basis and is regarded as a source of informed opinion by a range of Government, academic and employer organisations.
“It’s a powerful platform for The Bedford College Group to be a part of and sits perfectly with our local, regional and national aspirations to evolve ever widening participation in degree level learning,” says Alex Mortby, Director of Higher Education.
Bedford College has a long historical association with what is now generally called Higher Education or degree level learning.
Originally it was the part of the Bedford College of Higher and Further Education and known as Mander College.
The Polhill and Landsdowne campuses delivering sports and teacher training degrees, became part of De Montfort University in the last century.
Those elements later joined with the University of Luton to become the University of Bedfordshire.
Meanwhile, what was Mander was rebranded as Bedford College, and under the leadership of Ian Pryce CBE, has gone on to become one of the most successful colleges in the UK offering 16 to 60-year-olds the chance to gain a degree though a variety of routes.
Recognised as the leading regional provider of education and training for the 21st Century, where more modern ways of studying are made possible by using technology, The Bedford College Group is helping people to be ready for the fast changing world of work.
Already, The Bedford College Groups offers degrees in across its campuses in Bedfordshire and Northants:
• BA Fashion
• Fashion (Textiles for Fashion)
• Photography
• Graphic Communication
• Media Production
• Music Technology
• Psychology and Criminal Behaviour
• Child & Adolescent Studies
• BScEngineering
• Agriculture
• Animal Science
Foundation degrees and other forms of Higher Education studies are also on offer as well employer-recognised HNC/HND qualifications which can be studied full-time or part-time across range of subjects.
“These all add towards degree qualifications which are more closely aligned with what the work-place requires compared to three years of some university courses,” added Alex,“Our emphasis is on making sure the student is in tune with the very latest changes and requirements in the sectors in which they want to work.
“Whilst employers increasing want skilled and educated candidates, they value evidence of proven understanding of the industry they represent. Such engagement is embedded in all courses for all ages.
”Funding for our HE courses can be supported via Student Loans, in the same way as a “university loan”.
