THE Centre for Alternative Technology has received a positive rating for its teaching standards from the QAA, the university equivalent of Ofsted.

CAT’s Graduate School of the Environment has nearly 300 postgraduate students from around the UK and overseas who study across six Masters degrees in sustainability topics and architecture.

The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education carried out a thorough review of the school’s academic standards and student learning opportunities in late 2017 and has just published its findings.

Out of the four categories used by the QAA, CAT received two commendations, focusing on the enhancement and quality of student learning opportunities.

CAT’s Graduate School currently features five MSc degrees, including sustainability and adaptation in the built environment, food sustainability, energy provision and an MArch degree in sustainable architecture.

Intake to CAT’s suite of MSc sustainability courses has increased substantially from 22 in 2014 to 121 in 2017. Three new degrees are being planned for 2019.

CAT is a high-profile pioneer of practical solutions for a greener world and has been based in Machynlleth on the site of an old slate quarry for over 45 years.

In addition to the Graduate School the charity has a visitor centre that attracts tens of thousands of visitors a year, runs dozens of environmental short courses and is advising other organisations around the world.

CAT chief executive Adrian Ramsay said: “This review from the QAA is a vote of confidence in the dedication and professionalism of our academic and support teams.

“The pressing environmental issues facing us need to be addressed in a practical way and our graduates leave us with the skills and passion to act as changemakers.”