About UCQ
University Centre Quayside (UCQ) have delivered vocationally specific courses across the North East and Tees Valley for over 30 years.
We offer bespoke and engaging education programmes ranging from Entry Level to Higher Education. We have experienced and exceptional curriculum teams providing our degree, apprenticeship, adult, pre-employment, work-based and distance learning programmes, all of whom combine high levels of teaching experience and vocational skills and experience relevant to their subject area.
As an established provider of education and training, we were rated Bronze in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 and rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2022).
Our learning programmes include:
- Essential Work Skills: Job-specific skills for those seeking employment or upskilling.
- Distance Learning: For employers wishing to train new staff or upskill existing staff.
- Work-Based Learning: Supporting employers to provide upskilling and retraining opportunities.
- Apprenticeships: An alternative way of achieving a qualification or degree while at work.
- Degree Apprenticeships: Empowering managers to advance their careers.
For more information on our range of programmes click on the links below or check out our Programme Guide
Information, Advice and Guidance
As a student at UCQ, you have the right to high-quality Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG), which is embedded throughout your programme.
IAG is not just about careers, it’s about supporting you to make confident, informed decisions at every stage of your learning journey. From enrolment and induction through to achievement and progression, UCQ provides impartial, timely and personalised support to help you succeed. Whether you’re choosing the right course, navigating your studies, or planning your next steps, IAG is here to guide you towards your goals.
UCQ is accredited to the matrix Standard for IAG, reflecting our commitment to excellence in student support. Our approach ensures that you are empowered with the knowledge, skills and confidence to shape your future career development.
For more details, please refer to: GP-022 Applicant Policy TLA-023; Information Advice and Guidance Policy available at: https://ucq.ac.uk/policies/
UKPRN: 10025197
Disability Confident Employer
UCQ is a Disability Confident Employer, demonstrating our commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace for all.
We actively recruit and support disabled people and those with long-term health conditions, ensuring fair access to opportunities and removing barriers wherever possible.
Our approach includes:
We are committed to continuous improvement and regularly review our practices to ensure we are creating a workplace where everyone can succeed.
We are currently strengthening our approach through enhanced monitoring, accessibility audits, and staff engagement to further improve outcomes for disabled colleagues.
Apprenticeships
Degree Apprenticeships
Distance Learning
Work Based Training
Essential Work Skills






















