Macclesfield College has announced a new partnership with the University of Derby as part of the expansion of its degree-level curriculum.
Three of the university’s courses will be delivered at Macclesfield College’s campus as part of its partnership, with additional courses already being planned.
The University of Derby has praised the college for its ambition to provide higher level courses locally to students in the area, and address skills gaps experienced by Cheshire employers. Macclesfield College reports that graduates are in increasing demand from employers in the town and can command a salary premium of up to £10,000.
Initially, two teacher training courses awarded by the University of Derby will be taught as part of the partnership, as well as a Foundation Degree aimed at those supporting children and young people. All courses will offer direct progression to study a full degree should students wish to progress further in their studies.
In the announcement of the partnership on the Macclesfield College website, Principal and CEO, Rachel Kay, comments:
I am extremely pleased to launch our new partnership with the University of Derby; this supports our five year strategic plan and our mission to provide high quality and affordable higher education locally”.
Professor Malcolm Todd, Deputy Vice-Chancellor/Provost (Academic and Student Experience) at the University of Derby, added:
I am delighted that the University of Derby has formed a new partnership with Macclesfield College to build on our shared focus of delivering an excellent student experience and high quality degree level learning programmes.
“Working closely with the college will enable us to determine the educational needs of the town and surrounding areas, with a view to addressing skills gaps in the local market and providing a future-fit workforce.”