Derby faces quality inquiry

Quality chiefs have launched an inquiry into the University of Derby's operations in Israel, writes Phil Baty.

A spokesman for the Quality Assurance Agency said this week: "The QAA will carry out an inquiry into allegations made about the operation of an arrangement by the University of Derby to franchise certain of its programmes to Inter College, Israel.

"The inquiry will address allegations made about the university's management of quality and standards in relation to this provision. The inquiry will not deal with allegations concerning compliance with the terms of the Israeli licence under which the programmes are offered, as these are matters for the Israeli authorities."

The THES has reported since June 1999 on Derby's partnership with the private Inter College in Tel Aviv. Reports have focused on admissions policies, students' entry qualifications, quality control procedures and internal whistleblowing by Derby staff.

Lecturers' union Natfhe called on education secretary David Blunkett earlier this year to mount an investigation following The THES's reports, and Mr Blunkett turned to the QAA for advice. The QAA confirmed this week that Derby had agreed to the inquiry, after discussions with the agency and Natfhe.

Natfhe's head of universities, Tom Wilson, said this week: "We welcome this move - it is exactly what Natfhe has been calling for. We are glad that it will be an independent inquiry and that after consideration by Derby's governors, it will be published.

"It is a brave step by Derby to work jointly with the QAA and Natfhe to address much-needed improvements in quality procedures. We look forward to a new era of positive and constructive work to lay to rest these concerns about quality."

Roger Waterhouse, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said:"The university remains confident that the quality of its operation in Israel is of a high standard.

"The university will, of course, cooperate fully with the QAA team."

The QAA report is due to be completed by the end of July.