University supports launch of pioneering learning platform to support expanding businesses

A partnership between University of Gloucestershire and Stroud-based Treehouse Partners has led to the launch of a pioneering learning platform to support expanding businesses.

Treehouse Partners’ groundbreaking ‘Unlocked’ service is a technology-enabled accessible development solution that combines self-assessment, 360 feedback and scenario-based testing – enabling businesses to identify skills gaps and plan targeted development.

Treehouse Partners secured funding for the project through Innovate UK’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) – a partly Government-funded programme bringing together businesses and universities – after joining forces with University of Gloucestershire.

KTP’s are unique collaborative partnerships between businesses and universities, colleges and research organisations to create positive impact and drive innovation.

Each KTP addresses a specific challenge and enables the transfer of knowledge, technology, and expertise from the academic partner to the business or organisation.

Treehouse Partners – business management experts – leveraged the University’s digital expertise to develop Unlocked as a cost-effective digital tool that enables fast-growing companies to retain high-quality employees.

It is part of the University’s collaborative work with Treehouse Partners, through its School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences, in carrying out industry-led research and in developing new products, processes and services through studies around data science.

The partnership provides placement learning and networking opportunities for students on the University’s data-science-related courses, which include MSc Data Science.

Dr Will Sayers (pictured above), Associate Head of the School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences, said: “We’re proud to have worked alongside Treehouse Partners to secure Innovate UK funding for their new Unlocked service, strengthening the range of training, learning, and coaching solutions they offer.

“This collaboration is central to our mission of working with industry to deliver meaningful research with impact, and to ensure our data science and computing degrees equip students with cutting-edge, business-relevant skills.”

Helen Westendorp, Director and Head Locksmith at Treehouse Partners, said: “This work would not have been possible without Will’s technical knowledge. His expertise, steadfast support for the project, and commitment to ensuring the long‑term success of Unlocked have been critical.

“In particular, his counsel on maintaining the security of the tool and its data has been central to the development of this new platform.”

Main image: left to right, Kyle Westendorp (Degree Apprentice – Digital and Technology Solutions), Becky Evans (Head of Learning and Development, Stuart Wiley (via Teams – Head Software Designer) from Treehouse Partners