Walsall College has retained its Gold Quality Award from education and career service provider Prospects, which is bestowed to organisations that offer exceptional support in providing Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG)

The college first achieved the Gold quality mark in 2010 and again in 2013. The college receives periodic assessment every few years and on each occasion, it has successfully showcased how it continually introduces new ideas and developments to improve the quality of its careers service.

External assessors visited the college last month to review a portfolio of evidence and also gathered feedback from students who have received support in relation to their careers education, and staff who have provided this service. The assessment covered topics including Policy and Management, Review and Evaluation, Experience of the World of Work, Work with Parents and Carers, Student Voice and Individual Guidance, Personal Planning and Transition Support.

Assessors recognised a number of strengths across the college’s CEIAG service, including how successfully it prepares students for the world of work and tailors its provision to meet students’ individual needs. The assessors were also impressed with the college’s unique and extensive approach to employer engagement, with its range of employer-led activities that help inform students about the career options available to them and develop their knowledge of what employers are looking for.

The Quality in Careers Standard, awarded by education and career service provider Prospects, is designed to accredit good practice and encourage development in schools, academies, colleges, special schools and PRUs/short stay schools.

Director of Student Journey at Walsall College, Carol Egan said:

“The quality standard is regularly being revised and the process made more rigorous. It measures the impact our services have on supporting student outcomes, so we are thrilled to retain the accreditation.

The achievement of this award at Gold standard evidences the importance the College places on Careers Education, and our commitment to supporting our students into work, further training or Higher Education.

Walsall College strives to ensure that our students gain as much exposure and information to opportunities available to them locally, nationally and internationally so that they are fully aware of what skills and qualities along with qualifications potential employers require.

Our aim is to raise students’ aspirations, keep students motivated and inspired and most importantly prepared for the workplace."

To make an appointment with the college’s Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) team, call 01922 657000 or email info@walsallcollege.ac.uk