Edge Hill only English university graded ‘outstanding’ in all three teacher training age phases

Edge Hill University has become the only higher education institution (HEI) in England to be rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted across all three teacher training age phases.

The university was awarded the highest grade for ‘overall effectiveness’ across primary, secondary, and further education and training – inspectors judged the quality of education, and leadership and management to be outstanding.

The sector-leading news recognises the commitment of Edge Hill – the largest Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provider in the North West – to deliver the highest quality education and support for its trainee teachers.

The glowing report stated that “trainees at Edge Hill flourish”.

Dr Jane Moore, pro vice-chancellor and dean of education for Edge Hill, said: “Everyone in the faculty of education is entirely committed to the transformational power of education, for every learner from early years onwards, and for their families and communities.

“We work hard to provide our trainees with the highest quality preparation and to ensure they are confident, curious and compassionate in their future careers. We are also privileged to work with hundreds of like-minded partners, the schools, colleges and other settings who share our belief in social justice and refusal to settle for second best.

“Integral to this judgement is the everyday commitment and support we receive from our partner settings, schools and colleges, in particular the dedicated mentors who support and challenge our trainees whilst on professional placements and we are very proud that this has been recognised in the report too.”

Michelle Pearson, head of teacher education strategy, added: “For nearly 140 years, Edge Hill has been developing the very best teachers for the profession. We are delighted that inspectors have recognised the dedication and innovation of this partnership in making a difference to the life chances of children and young people across the region.”

Inspectors in their report said that ‘trainees are immensely well supported by knowledgeable and inspirational tutors and by highly skilled, committed mentors’.

Hina Suleman, PGCE secondary computer science and IT with QTS, said: “A university education isn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about gaining critical thinking skills, expanding your world view and fostering personal growth – all of which I gained at Edge Hill.

“The university deserves this amazing assessment for fostering a tradition of excellence across various disciplines – vocational, educational and employability.”

Many trainees have spoken proudly about how their ITE programmes have ‘transformed their thinking as new teachers’.

Katy Dodd, BA (Hons) primary early years education with QTS, added: “Edge Hill University has provided so many valuable experiences for me over the past three years, like the opportunity to do extra placements internationally. The support from tutors, and their subject expertise, is brilliant.”

Paul Livesley, deputy head of Lathom High School and chair of the faculty of education’s strategic partnership board, said he was proud to work in partnership with Edge Hill to develop the next generation of teachers.

“We recognise our responsibility to pursue excellence in teacher education. Creating outstanding teachers is essential for the sector and ensures that our children have the knowledge, skills and choices that can truly transform their lives.”

The Edge Hill faculty of education has a well-established national reputation for the delivery of high-quality Initial Teacher Education (ITE) across the full range of age phases alongside a substantial track record in supporting partner schools and colleges in school improvement initiatives.

Find out more about training to be a teacher at Edge Hill University.