Our Student Services team has been awarded a top accolade for their positive working culture, high level of learner support and excellent partnership work. The national Matrix standard is a framework for excellence in information advice and guidance (IAG). Support staff at the College were assessed by Matrix assessor Angela Peacock on careers advice, financial support, pastoral and welfare services and other aspects of their work, leading to high praise for the way the team operate.
The report highlighted the welcoming “family feel” of the College, drawing particular attention to the varied roles that exist to support its many learners. From support in regional schools to creating work placement opportunities for those with special educational needs, the broad-ranging functions of the team were highly commended, as were new developments still in the planning stage to be implemented shortly.
Notable existing enhancements have included a new office space in the College’s Student Services area, which Matrix stated “enables a more cohesive service”, the creation of College Welfare and Retention Mentors (WARMs) and a Welfare Officer role, all of which were praised for their work with learners and external agencies.
As part of the Matrix assessment, students were interviewed by the assessor, with their feedback being universally positive. Comments included “They helped me and are very reliable. I feel like you can go to them about anything” and “I went to see other colleges and the staff here are friendlier. Student Services staff are really welcoming and the teaching staff are down to earth.”
Deborah Caygill, Director said “We’re thrilled to have renewed our Matrix Standard yet again, and seeing the positive changes we’ve made come to the fore has been rewarding. The staff work tirelessly with students and external support services and universities, so seeing their hard work recognised by Matrix is fantastic. It’s more important than ever that young people can access timely, impartial IAG and support to achieve their ambitions and here at Hartlepool College we continue to go the extra mile to ensure all of our learners succeed.”