The foundation courses are being marketed internationally and will run at two of Astrum Education’s central London campuses, Chelsea Independent College and Lansdowne College.

International students are guaranteed a place at the NCUK owner universities including the University of Leeds, the University of Sheffield and the University of Liverpool

Sales & Marketing Director of Astrum Education, Michael Parris, told The PIE News he’s looking forward to benefiting from NCUK’s 25- year track record of success in guaranteed university progression and progression opportunities.

Upon successful completion of the programme, international students are guaranteed a place at one of the 11 NCUK universities including the University of Leeds, the University of Sheffield and the University of Liverpool.

“We have run a small business foundation at Chelsea before but have broadened our provision and are delighted to be working with NCUK,” said Parris.

“We are British colleges which integrate international students into our communities and will remain to do so. The foundation is an addition to our portfolio but not a change of direction,” he added.

International students enrolling on the International Foundation Year are able to study on a number of courses under business, humanities, science and engineering streams.

“We are looking to select a suitable cohort of well-qualified students on to each pathway,” explained Parris, who acknowledged that the strategic aim is to have no more than 20% of any one nationality.

Georgina Jones, Business Development Manager at NCUK, told The PIE News: “As part of a wider growth and diversification strategy, NCUK is looking to establish at least three additional partners in the UK.”

Jones explained that Astrum Education will be the first partner to start with the International Foundation Year offering business and humanities as well as the science and engineering streams.

“Whilst the majority of our students continue to benefit from being able to study in their own country, we also want to ensure we can meet the demand for [pathways for] those coming to the UK,” said Jones.” This September will also see new partners opening in Colombia, India and Singapore.”