Employability and student satisfaction of Guildhall students recognised in highest government ranking

Guildhall School of Music & Drama has been rated Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which was created by the UK Government to measure the quality of teaching in the higher education sector.

In its statement about awarding Guildhall its highest possible rating, the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) noted that ‘continuation rates are consistent with the provider’s benchmark, that progression to highly skilled employment or further study is outstanding and that student satisfaction with academic support is exceptionally high and above the provider’s benchmark.’

Among its considerations, the TEF panel cited the high contact hours and intensive one-to-one tuition Guildhall students receive, the personalised nature of their learning, strong student representation and engagement, and outstanding physical and digital resources, as well as Guildhall’s strategic commitment to attracting students from diverse backgrounds.

Lynne Williams, Principal of Guildhall School, said: ‘We are delighted with this Gold Award, and especially that the citation recognises the employability of our students and their high satisfaction rates with the support we offer. Students’ experience of their time at conservatoire and their ability to make a life in the performing arts are the key factors for any higher education organisation, and we are proud that our commitment in these areas has paid off.’

The Gold Award comes in the same week that Guildhall was ranked as the UK’s top conservatoire in the Guardian’s University Guide 2019 for Music, and third among all UK higher education institutions for Music.