The University of Hertfordshire has been rated as good by Ofsted for its apprenticeship schemes.

The Hatfield-based establishment was praised by the education watchdog for building "character and confidence" among students following their visit back in May.

It was also credited for providing opportunities through its links with local businesses, and for providing teaching and learning opportunities such as practical experiences.

"I’d like to thank everyone for all their hard work over the past eighteen months to implement the changes that have resulted in this year’s positive inspection rating," said Professor Quintin McKellar, vice-chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire.

"We are passionate about offering alternative routes to higher education and we are proud of the education and training we provide for our apprentices.

"We have higher and degree apprenticeship programmes available, and our team of experts work with employers across a wide variety of sectors to create apprenticeship programmes that truly drive value to both the employer and the learner.

"We will continue to learn and improve our provision, which serves an important role in widening participation in higher education and filling gaps in the local workforce by upskilling staff."