As a leading UK technology supplier to the education sector, SCC partners with Universities, Colleges, Multi-Academy Trusts and Independent Schools, to create compelling student experiences, providing competitive edge through ongoing innovation.
The pressures on education institutions are mounting; from rapid digital transformation to increasing cost pressures and the vital need for student and staff retention. At SCC, we understand these complexities and offer innovative solutions to empower institutions to deliver exceptional student experiences while balancing the demands of online and in-person learning. Our digital workplace solutions foster real-time, integrated communication, boosting student engagement and support.
Financial pressures are a significant concern for UK institutions. Recent reports highlight a third consecutive annual decline in the sector's finances, with many providers forecasting overall deficits. This is driven by rising inflation, increased operating costs and a significant reduction in international student entrants. With many schools also facing budget cuts, optimising resources is more critical than ever.
SCC's services ensure institutions maximise technology investments to meet student expectations without undue strain on budgets. Our flexible payment solutions provide agility for technology purchases, relieving financial pressure and helping institutions navigate economic headwinds.
Retaining talented staff and engaged students is paramount – especially as teacher shortages persist and burnout among educators remains high. With reports indicating that 91% feel their mental health is negatively affected by their jobs, addressing staff wellbeing is crucial.
SCC enhance student experiences with flexible, scalable and accessible learning environments, which provide a balanced approach to alleviate staff pressures through adaptive teaching and learning models. Furthermore, our Digital Workplace solutions streamline administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus on instruction and personalised learning. This results in happier staff and a better student experience.
SCC are dedicated to helping education organisations harness the power of new and emerging technologies, with our skills and expertise proven through a wide range of successful customer partnerships. Our experience, combined with our strategic alliances, empower institutions to deliver enhanced learning experiences and give valuable time back to teaching staff.
UK universities face digital transformation challenges: balancing online/in-person learning, bridging the digital divide and prioritising student wellbeing. They must enhance digital literacy, ensure data security and meet evolving student expectations. Success means leveraging technology for enriching, equitable student experiences while safeguarding mental health.
The UK education sector is facing significant financial pressures which may lead to a need to increase student fees. However, this risks deterring students from disadvantaged backgrounds and exacerbating inequality. Students will demand greater "value for money," scrutinising course quality and campus facilities. Increased debt burdens will also impact student wellbeing and future financial stability.
A struggling university workforce creates a domino effect on student retention. Staff shortages and burnout diminish student support and engagement. Disruptions from strikes and low morale degrade the learning environment. Insecure contracts and pay cuts demoralise educators, impacting teaching quality. Consequently, a compromised staff experience directly translates to a poorer student experience, pushing students to leave.
The Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute
A new partnership with Aston University is exploring the future of digital technologies and digital skills to transform industries, improve business and enhance lives.
Focused on bridging the gap between academia and industry, The Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute is fostering innovation in areas including AI in Health, Data Science, Bioinformatics, gamification and the Digital Society. The goals are to enhance economic regeneration and technological leadership, drive high impact research in digital technologies and create innovative solutions.
Sir Peter Rigby Centre for Enterprise
The Enterprise Centre at The University of Liverpool opened in October 2024. The Centre’s long-term vision is to transform student employability and to accelerate new business development for Liverpool city and region.
The Centre provides a shared workspace, with a range of amenities to help students develop their entrepreneurial and enterprise skills. On-site advisors are on hand at the centre to help students work on their business ideas, network and build connections in a professional environment.
Students looking to build their own start-up are offered a support package including help with registering their business and advice on planning and growing their enterprise.
The Centre enables companies to host student internships, establish coaching and mentoring partnerships and offer advice sessions on topics such as legal matters, finance, bid writing, property and IP requirements.
SCC is proud to support the Rigby family’s charities, The Rigby Foundation and The Sir Peter Rigby Charitable Trust. Both charities uphold and deliver on SCC's values and core belief that giving back to society should go hand-in-hand with success in business. For over 30 years, the Foundation and Charitable Trust have supported multiple charities and causes, with an emphasis on those that are close to the communities in which Rigby Group operates.
