EDT reaccredited with matrix standard for information, advice and guidance services

The matrix standard is owned by the UK’s Department for Education and ensures the delivery of high-quality IAG services that enable people to reach their full potential. 

At EDT, we deliver IAG through the National Careers Service (NCS), where customers aged 18 and over can access free, impartial and confidential careers advice remotely or face-to-face from our qualified advisers. We also deliver IAG in schools, through interviews, workshops, parents’ evenings and tailored support, as well as in our employability contracts, which help a wide range of individuals seeking to enter or return to employment. IAG is also embedded in our skills contracts, in which we guide learners to make informed decisions on enrolment and help them achieve their learning and work goals. 

Matrix assessors praised EDT for exceptionally high standards in delivery which exceeded the standard’s minimum expectations. 

Several strengths were identified, including: 

• colleagues feeling appreciated and supported, with regular communications 
• robust staff inductions and continuously updated learning materials 
• high levels of compliance 
• effective strategic partnerships with schools, local Job Centre Plus offices, training providers, and community centres 
• the senior leadership team’s commitment to delivering high-quality IAG. 

We are also proud to have received some excellent feedback from NCS customers and our partners, which demonstrates the success of our work. 

Feedback from participants 

“I wasn’t in a good place, but now I feel more special; I am finally living as an adult and making plans.” 

“Within a week of accessing the NCS service, I received job offers.” 

“I love how the team stays in touch with you even when you have gone into work.” 

“My adviser had a great soft skillset that put me at ease.” 

“I thought ‘wow’ when I received my CV. I am not very good at selling myself.” 

Feedback from partners 

“[EDT offers] an excellent service to our customers.” 

“[Our relationship with EDT is] fantastic and second-to-none.” 

We thank the Department for Education for its recognition of our service quality, and we look forward to continuing to deliver our IAG services at these high standards leading up to our next assessment and beyond. 

Find out more about our work in the UK here.