THE University of Chester's higher and degree apprenticeships have received a 'Good' rating from Ofsted after a recent inspection.

The university, which has a centre in Warrington, was assessed across four key judgment areas.

All areas achieved a 'Good' rating, with the university's use of technology in teaching and its provision of constructive feedback for learners being particularly commended.

The inspection considered the university's Chartered Manager, Social Work, Student Nursing Associate, Pre-Registered Nurse, Advanced Clinical Practitioner, and Police Constable programmes.

The findings indicate that learners on these programmes are achieving well.

According to the university, one-third of learners are awarded the highest classification for their qualifications and end-point assessments.

The Ofsted report also highlighted the university's effective support for learners, noting that staff identify each learner's knowledge and abilities at the start of their programme.

This is reviewed during their studies, with challenging targets set for learners.

The university's efforts to support a significant number of apprentices with special educational needs and/or difficulties (SEND) were also praised.

Inspectors found that the apprenticeship curricula are well-planned and developed to support learners' broader development and citizenship.

The university's commitment to providing valuable careers and employability advice and guidance for apprentices was also recognised.

Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Chester, said: "We are delighted with this outcome and I want to thank all our employers and learners who supported the university during the inspection and continue to do so on our apprenticeship programmes.

"This report recognises the hard work of colleagues across the university who support our higher and degree apprentices, which is apparent in the improving achievement rates.

"Our provision is predominantly delivered for and with the public sector, and we are very proud to be developing the nurses, social workers, and police officers of the future for the communities we serve across the North-West region."

The university's partnerships with employers were commended for ensuring that all learners benefit from the full curriculum.