Michelle Caiyu Wang MBA MSc

I’m really proud to see the Durham Learning Alliance featured as a national case study in the new Association of Colleges and UUK report – “Delivering a Joined-Up Post-16 Skills System.” Give it a read, the report highlights how genuine collaboration between colleges and universities can create clear pathways, strengthen regional skills and open up real opportunities for learners and employers. Here in County Durham, we’ve been living that vision. Through the Durham Learning Alliance, Durham University, Bishop Auckland College, New College Durham , Derwentside College and East Durham College formally came together over a year ago with a shared commitment to cooperation over competition — to build a stronger skills pipeline for our region. At Bishop Auckland College , we’ve been proud to: ✅ Work together strategically for the good of our county. ✅ Provide new opportunities for students through apprenticeships and work placements with Durham University. ✅ Support staff development through funded CPD and shared expertise, helping our teams grow alongside our students. This partnership is about more than policy — it’s about people, place, and purpose. It is collaboration not competition for the betterment of our colleges, university and our region. Chris Todd Scott Bullock Andy Broadbent Karen O’Brien

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🎓 New research on hidden barriers to student success Following their workshop at our Teaching and Learning Conference 2025, Dr Alicja McGarrigle and Dr Elizabeth Kaplunov, Regent College London, share their thoughts on some of the challenges students can experience in trying to realise their academic and professional potential - and it's not about lack of effort. Their research with diverse UK college students uncovered three critical themes: • External pressures matter more than we think: work obligations, family responsibilities and tight deadlines create mental strain that directly impacts academic engagement, even for highly motivated students. • Psychological barriers run deep: fear of failure and perfectionism don't just affect performance—they prevent students from asking questions and participating, creating a cycle of disengagement that protects self-image but limits growth. • Resilience is key: despite challenges, students showed remarkable adaptability. Those with natural curiosity, strong tutor relationships and clear long-term goals found creative ways to overcome obstacles. The takeaway for educators? Academic struggles rarely stem from laziness or inability. Understanding the psychological dimensions of underachievement—from cultural adjustment challenges to confidence issues—is essential for creating truly inclusive learning environments. What strategies have you found most effective in supporting students who aren't reaching their potential? Learn more https://lnkd.in/exhs3qsG

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Our Managing Director, External Engagement and Sustainability, Kevin McCole, shares his views on the UK-India FTA Agreement and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and their positive implications for the British higher education sector. GEDU is assisting the sector to achieve momentum in exporting British education to India. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gjWsSf6j #GEDU #HigherEducation #BritishEducation #UKIndiaRelations #FTA #EducationExports #InternationalEducation #UKUniversities #EducationPartnership #StudyAbroad #GlobalEducation #EducationNews #EducationOpportunities

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