May 2003
Lead Stories

University Awarded Investors in People

The University has been awarded the prestigious Investors in People (IiP) Standard - making it the only pre-1992 university in England to achieve this much sought-after recognition as a whole institution.

IiP is the national award which sets a level of good practice for training and development of staff to achieve the goals of the organisation. Achieving the Standard was one of the aims of the University's Corporate Plan.

Commenting on the announcement, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Resources) and Chair of the University's IiP Project Group, Professor Grace Alderson, said: "I am delighted in this result for the University which reflects the hard work staff put in to ensure that our internal processes for the development and management of people meet the required IiP Standard.

"The assessor gave positive feedback, but reminded us that this is just the beginning of a commitment to maintaining this status. It is crucial that staff at all levels work towards continuous improvement in areas highlighted in the report."

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chris Taylor, said: "This recognition is particularly valued by the University as it demonstrates our commitment to both staff and customers, and is an award highly valued by our stakeholders. The benefits gained by ensuring that staff have job satisfaction, work in a good environment and are given opportunities in training and development are passed to our students, ensuring that we provide better quality customer care for those studying here."

The external assessor spent considerable time at the University before making her judgement. A recommendation was made by Investors in People Assessor Sue Hiley following interviews with more than 80 staff. Assessment included taking consideration of areas such as the planning process, equal opportunities, teaching, research, technical, administrative and secretarial functions. A final decision and formal recognition was then made by the Investors in People Recognition Board.

The award is further recognition of the University's record in staff training and development. Prior to the institution being awarded IiP status, the University's School of Health Studies and its predecessor the Bradford and Airedale College of Health, which was integrated into the University, had both been recognised as meeting the Standard. The School of Pharmacy and the University's Nursery, on Laisteridge Lane, also have an internal award of excellence, entitled the 'University of Bradford's Award of Excellence in Developing People'.

6 May 2003

next

top of page