Aston wins top marks

The Government-run agency, which is part of the Higher Education Funding Council, awarded the department 23 points out of a possible 24 points in the assessment of six key areas. These were: curriculum design, content and organisation; teaching, learning and assessment; student progression and achievement; student support and guidance; and quality management and enhancement. The assessment covers taught courses and an achievement of 22 points or over on the QAA's league tables is regarded as excellent. Derek Barnes, director of undergraduate studies, said: 'We are very please to have scored so well in the assessment. We are the third out of four that have achieved an excellent status in the School of Life and Health Sciences. We hope our achievement bodes well for the rest of optometry.' The assessment, carried out in England only (although there is a Welsh equivalent), will be performed at the remaining universities later this year and in the year 2000.