Blunkett calls for Derby investigation

Education secretary David Blunkett has asked the Quality Assurance Agency to investigate revelations in The THES that Derby University enrolled students to its courses in Israel without minimum entry requirements, in order to meet financial targets.

The THES has revealed that in a franchise deal set up behind the back of the university's quality chief, Derby systematically admitted under-qualified students. One student with no prior qualifications was able to obtain a full degree within a year.

An inquiry was demanded by lecturers' union Natfhe. The QAA this week confirmed that the Department for Education and Employment has asked the agency to respond. Want to blow the whistle?

Contact Phil Baty on 020 7782 3298

or email phil.baty@thes.co.uk

Phil Baty