Originally Published 25 September 2002

The University of Warwick has been awarded top marks by inspectors from OFSTED for the quality of teacher training delivered by the Institute of Education.

Teacher training courses are assessed on five criteria, covering the quality of training in the University and its partner schools, quality of assessment and various aspects of students's teaching.

Following six inspections over the past year the Institute has achieved grade 1's in all criteria in 4 secondary Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) courses - History, English, Drama, Religious Education and Economics - distinguishing them as "very good with outstanding features". Other courses, including secondary Science and primary Mathematics also scored first-class grades.

Professor Chris Husbands, Director of the Institute of Education, said: "The grades put the University of Warwick into the top rank of initial teacher training providers. These are outstanding results that have been achieved through dedicated teamwork and by developing a close relationship with over 300 partner schools and colleges throughout the West Midlands".

Professor Husbands continued: "We're committed to the development of good educational practice locally, nationally and internationally. Our programmes help trainees develop the skills they need to ensure that children, young people and mature students receive high-quality teaching."

OFSTED reports praise the "very high quality" of teaching and the shared purpose found in the University and partner institutions, stating, "training in schools complements and reinforces University training very effectively".

For further information contact:

Jenny Murray
Assistant Press Office
Communications Office
University of Warwick
Tel: (024) 7652 4255
Mobile: 07876 217740
Email: jennifer.murray@warwick.ac.uk

Professor Chris Husbands
Institute of Education
University of Warwick
Tel: 024 76 524416

Notes for editors:

• OFSTED is a non-ministerial government department responsible for the inspection of all schools, local education authorities, teacher training institutions and youth work in England.
• The University of Warwick works in partnership with over 300 schools in the region, including primary and secondary schools, inner city, grammar schools, large urban comprehensives and technology colleges.