Progress Careers has successfully retained the prestigious The Matrix Standard accreditation for a fourth consecutive cycle, an achievement that recognises the organisation’s continued commitment to delivering outstanding careers information, advice and guidance (CEIAG). The accreditation will be proudly held for the next three years.
The Matrix Standard is the quality framework for organisations that deliver IAG services and is owned by the Department for Education (DfE). Achieving, and retaining, this accreditation requires a rigorous external assessment process, designed to ensure services are impactful, impartial and centred around the needs of learners.
During the assessment, an independent assessor examined every layer of Progress Careers’ provision. This included in-depth reviews of delivery models, quality assurance processes and, most importantly, direct feedback from the schools and students who benefit from the service.
It was this first-hand feedback that truly stood out. In the official report, the assessor noted:
“Progress Careers continues to be among the best careers IAG organisations available, and it is clearly the hard work and commitment of Progress Careers staff that has kept it at the top of the careers IAG profession.”
The assessor also highlighted the strength of partnership working with schools, stating:
“Interviews with senior leaders and careers leaders demonstrated considerable confidence and enthusiasm for Progress Careers, emphasising the value of the partnership and how Progress Careers staff helped to improve outcomes for the students.”
The report praised the team’s professionalism, sector knowledge and unwavering focus on improving future pathways for young people – reinforcing Progress Careers’ position as a trusted strategic partner to schools.
Katie Tune, Head of Operations at Progress Careers, commented on the achievement:
“It’s fantastic to once again receive the Matrix Accreditation. Our team works incredibly hard every day to ensure we deliver meaningful, high-quality careers guidance that genuinely supports students’ futures. I’m immensely proud to see that dedication recognised. It was a pleasure to speak with the assessor and hear him reflect so positively on the passion and professionalism of our team, saying, ‘The team our truly vauled and should be proud of the added value they provide’”.
Paula Thompson, Chief Operating Officer – Progress Education (Future Pathways), added:
“I’m delighted that Progress Careers has renewed its Matrix Accreditation. The passion, expertise and integrity demonstrated by our colleagues every day is what truly sets this team apart. This reaccreditation is not just a reflection of quality standards being met – it represents the meaningful impact our careers guidance has on young people’s aspirations and long-term outcomes. We are committed to continually evolving our provision so that every student is equipped with the knowledge, confidence and direction to take their next steps successfully.”
Retaining the Matrix accreditation for a second time reaffirms Progress Careers’ commitment to excellence, continuous improvement and delivering careers guidance that makes a measurable difference to young people’s outcomes.
