Staffordshire University announced as finalist in the 2013 Times Higher Education Awards
Staffordshire University has been shortlisted for a prestigious award which recognises the role universities play in helping to upskill the UK’s workforce.
The Outstanding Employer Engagement Initiative is one of 18 categories in the 2013 Times Higher Education Awards, now in its ninth year and a glittering celebration of the best of the sector.
Staffordshire University’s entry into the category recognises close working with a wide range of employers including Serco Justice, Staffordshire County Council, North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Knights Solicitors and Howdens Joinery.
Sandra Booth, Director of Enterprise and Commercial Development said: “We pride ourselves on the excellent partnerships we have developed with employers in the region and so are delighted to have been shortlisted in this category.
“We have developed a comprehensive and professional business-to-business engagement methodology using an approach focussed on the needs of the business and solutions designed specifically to address the issues they are experiencing.”
The award recognises a strategic and innovative approach to delivering employers’ workforce development needs. Supporting Staffordshire University’s entry, Andy Burns, Director of Finance and Resources at Staffordshire County Council said: “What I’ve been impressed by with the University is their flexible approach, attitude and mind-set to say ‘let’s try and understand what our needs are and lets work together to meet your needs’ rather than offering a one-size fits all solution.”
Another prime example of Employer Engagement includes the partnership that has developed with Serco Justice, following work with HMP Dovegate. The University’s work highlighted needs to develop flexible CPD and a Foundation Degree in Offender Management was launched, the first of its kind to be delivered to a private prison.
As a result of their approach to business engagement, Serco have now selected Staffordshire University as preferred supplier to deliver specialist training for their enforcement agents.
The winners of the Outstanding Employer Engagement Initiative will be announced at a ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on November 28. Other contenders include Brunel University, University of Cumbria, Durham University, University of Edinburgh, York St John University.
