Positive judgement for Centre for Alternative Technology after QAA review
| Date: | June 7 - 2022 |
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A review of the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) by QAA, the UK’s independent quality body for higher education, has expressed confidence that ‘academic standards are reliable, meet UK requirements, and are reasonably comparable’ - the highest judgement available through the review process.
The Centre for Alternative Technology is an internationally-renowned environmental charity, a world-leading eco centre and leading provider of postgraduate environmental education. Its mission is to inspire, inform and enable humanity to respond to the climate and biodiversity emergency. Established in 1973, it is located near Machynlleth in mid-Wales, and has been delivering education for over 40 years in the field of sustainability.
The review was undertaken by a team of three independent reviewers, who were appointed by QAA and took place online between 21 and 22 March 2022. The review also expressed ‘confidence that the quality of the student academic experience meets relevant baseline regulatory requirements’.
The review provides the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) with an expert judgement about the readiness of the provider to enter, or continue to operate within, the higher education sector.
The review team did not identify any specified improvements or areas for development.
Head of School at the Centre, Dr Adrian Watson said: ‘CAT Masters degrees cover a wide range of issues relating to sustainability, and our practical, immersive approach to learning has now helped over 2,000 postgraduate students to gain skills, knowledge and networks to make a real difference in the world.
‘Achieving the highest possible judgement from the body that oversees quality and standards for higher education in the UK is testament to the calibre and dedication of CAT’s teaching and support staff, showing that our unique approach to education meets rigorous academic standards whilst offering a highly inspirational and empowering student experience.’