ONE of the first new foundation degrees to be introduced by a British university has received a glowing report from higher education watchdogs.

The Foundation Degree in Chemical Technology, at Teesside University, was launched in 2001 as part of a consortium that includes Middlesbrough College and industry bosses.

A report by the Quality Assurance Agency for High Education commends the degree. It praises the use of case studies which were relevant to students' employment, delivered in partnership with the chemical industry.

University vice-chancellor, Professor Graham Henderson, said: "I'm very pleased that the review described our foundation degree in chemical technology as "an excellent example of widening participation".