Twin Training International has received Highly Trusted Status (HTS) awards for both of its institutions within the space of eight hours.

Twin’s English school at Eastbourne was granted HTS from the UK Border Agency (UKBA) shortly after 10 am this morning, with the company’s main school in London given the same status at 4.30 pm this afternoon.

The decision from UKBA will allow Twin to teach English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and academic programmes to students from outside the EU at its London and Eastbourne sites.

The Government has made tightening up the visa system for international students one of its main priorities since coming into office.

The reforms mean private colleges have had to meet much stricter conditions before they are granted the HTS license to teach non-EU international students.

Twin’s Chairman Nick Tellwright felt that the UKBA decision is a validation of Twin’s emphasis on quality of service, saying:  “We are delighted that both of Twin’s centres have achieved HTS recognition on the same day. It is an important reflection of Twin’s focus on top quality service and performance.”

Chris Savins, the principal of Twin’s Eastbourne English school, commented that the decision was especially positive for Twin given the background of student visa reforms.

Mr Savins said: “We are delighted that the UKBA has recognised the legitimate teaching operations of our institution by awarding us Highly Trusted Status (HTS). Conditions are difficult for many private colleges and higher education institutions working with international students right now, and media headlines concerning bogus colleges being supported by the University of Wales have done nothing to inspire public or Government confidence in the sector.

“We believe that the UKBA’s decision to grant us Highly Trusted Status shows that the Government recognise genuine private colleges for international students make a big contribution to the economy.”

Posted by Caroline Fox

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