College joins ‘landmark partnership'

A North East further education college is set to enhance teaching standards through a new national initiative.

Middlesbrough College Group has been awarded funding to become a founding member of the Education Endowment Foundation’s (EEF) Evidence Partnership for the 16–19 sector, one of only six institutions across the country and the only one in the region.

As an evidence partner, the College Group, which joins other founding partners Thomas Rotherham College, New City College, Exeter College, East Lancashire Learning Group and Truro and Penwith College, will translate world-class research into practical teaching improvements, as well as share resources, build regional networks and support collaboration between providers. 

Officials say the initiative aims to close attainment gaps affecting socio-economically disadvantaged learners, who face an average learning delay of 19.1 months by the end of secondary school.

Tamara Pierce, group director of teaching, learning and assessment at Middlesbrough College, said: “We are incredibly excited to be working with the EEF on this landmark partnership.

“Teaching truly makes a difference, and as the only college in the North East to be part of this initiative, we are determined to ensure disadvantaged learners don’t face unnecessary barriers to success.

“This opportunity resonates deeply with our mission as a College – to raise aspirations, share best practice and deliver meaningful impact for learners and communities across our region.”

Emily Yeomans, co-chief executive of the EEF, added: “The 16-19 phase is a pivotal stage for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as they work towards achieving their full potential and securing vital qualifications.

“There is clear appetite across the sector for stronger evidence that speaks directly to the challenges colleges face – enabling them to use their resources more effectively and better support their learners. 

“By building a collaborative partnership, where members can share practice and embed evidence use, we aim to help reduce the entrenched inequalities that many young people still experience across the country.

“We are delighted to be working with Middlesbrough College Group and our other partner colleges to launch this new evidence partnership.”

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