College Retains Prestigious Matrix Quality Mark for Careers Advice and Guidance
Bournemouth and Poole College’s Careers Advice & Guidance Team have successfully retained the nationally recognised Matrix Standard accreditation following a rigorous two-day assessment. The college has held the accreditation for more than 10 years.
The department underwent a full review before the May half-term break, with an independent assessor meeting staff, students and external partners to evaluate the quality of its career information, advice and guidance services.
The Matrix Standard, recognised by the Department for Education (DfE), is the national benchmark for organisations delivering high-quality careers support. Following the assessment, the college was praised for its student-centred approach and strong collaborative culture.
The assessor said: “The overwhelming evidence from the assessment over the past two days has been extremely positive and a great example of Student Experience, Careers Advice and Guidance, and curriculum working closely together for the benefit of your students.”
Key strengths included the strong integration of careers guidance across the college, the positive impact the service has on student confidence, and the approachable and supportive nature of the Careers Advice & Guidance Team.
Students described the team as friendly, welcoming and easy to engage with. One student said: “I like how I can rely on them to direct me on the right pathway for me. They have helped me make the right decision.”
Another added: “The Adviser provided me with a range of ideas and helped me with lots of options.”
The assessment also recognised positive relationships between careers staff and colleagues across the wider college, a strong commitment to staff wellbeing, and an open and inclusive culture within Student Experience, supported by extensive professional development opportunities.
External partners were equally complimentary, describing the Careers Advice & Guidance Team as one of the most welcoming they had worked with.
Roger Chapman, Head of the Matrix Service for The Growth Company, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Bournemouth and Poole College and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. With their accreditation success, Bournemouth and Poole College is working to provide the best possible support to their students.”
Students also praised the team’s personalised approach, with one commenting: “They listen to us, understand our needs, then help us choose our pathway.”
The successful reaccreditation reflects the dedication of the Careers Advice & Guidance Team and colleagues across the college who contributed to the assessment process.
Pippa Allner, Student Experience Manager and Careers Lead and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), said: “A huge thank you goes to all staff involved for showcasing the exceptional support provided to students every day of the year.”
