University passes Institutional Audit
An independent panel recently conducted an Institutional Audit (ITK) of Leiden University. It assessed whether our quality assurance and quality culture are organised in such a way as to realise our educational vision and goals. Its initial conclusions? Leiden University easily meets all the standards and has a robust quality culture.
Peer asssessment
The ITK is a periodic, independent external assessment of an institution’s internal quality assurance. In two five-day visits a panel of peers from the University of Twente, Maastricht University, Leeds University and VU Amsterdam scrutinised our university. The panel spoke to just under 120 people, including students and teaching and support staff from all corners and levels of the university.
Panel impressed
The panel was impressed by the motivation and dedication shown in these open and enjoyable conversations. It could see that we have followed the recommendations from six years ago and that student well-being, inclusion and a respectful culture receive plenty of attention at the university. The panel’s positive conclusion is an important message to the government and society about our quality as an educational institution, the panel said.
Constructive recommendations and growth opportunities
Alongside compliments about our ambitions and robust quality culture, the panel made constructive recommendations, including about risk-based quality assurance and Leiden University as a single community. The panel asked how we can leverage the differences between our Leiden and The Hague campuses and become even stronger together. It also encourages us to develop the topic of ‘Recognition and Rewards’ and career opportunities in our teaching. The panel’s recommendations will be shared in its report in May. The feedback will help us continue to build on the future of our fantastic university.