Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

MATRIX

We are delighted to announce that Tees Achieve has achieved accreditation against the Matrix Quality Standard for information, advice and guidance services. This means that we can be sure we meet the highest standards for providing Information and Guidance to our learners and prospective learners.

The Matrix assessor visited us for two days to carry out the assessment. This involved a number of interviews with a variety of staff including learner support staff, administration staff, outreach workers and tutors. The assessor also talked to learners and two of our partners and observed staff delivering information, advice or guidance in a variety of settings. The assessment was rigorous, but was carried out in a very supportive way. An important point that we stressed, and the assessor agreed, is that Information and Guidance is embedded within our service and all members of staff have a part to play.

The assessor identified many areas of good practice. Here are just a few examples:

• Tees Achieve is a progressive and dynamic organisation
• We have a great deal of understanding of the needs of people living in the local community and strive to tailor services around those needs
• We demonstrate a strong commitment to Equality of Opportunity
• We have highly motivated and appropriately trained staff

We'd like to thank everyone who helped us achieve this award, especially those who were interviewed and/or observed. A copy of the report is attached in Word format.