Department of Continuing Education recognised as an Investor in People

Lancaster University's innovative Department of Continuing Education (DCE) was recognised as an Investor in People on 12 July 2002. This achievement underlines the emphasis that the DCE places on the training and development of its staff.

Professor Keith Percy, Director of Continuing Education, explains, "We provide education and training for around 5,000 adults every year, and the department is highly innovative in developing and offering new learning experiences. We are particularly committed to ensuring that Lancaster University opens its doors to as wide a range of people as possible. In this dynamic environment, it is crucial that our staff are fully trained, highly motivated and very effective in their various roles - from taking bookings and enquiries, to organising and teaching courses, and running residential summer schools.

"We have 26 core staff in the department and around 250 part-time teaching staff. Good communication is essential so that all staff have the information they need to perform their job well, even when the heat is on, and to feel like part of this successful team."

The Investors in People standard is awarded when an organisation is able to demonstrate its commitment to developing its employees to achieve business goals, and to review and evaluate this activity to measure the outcomes of training and development for individuals and the organisation.

Assistant Director Dr Diane Hopkins added, "While it is a significant achievement to achieve this standard, it is the principles of Investors which are important and which we know have a positive benefit for this department. We look forward to building on this in future as we continue to take forward the University's commitment to widening participation and lifelong learning."