Ofsted

Students thrive at this college. Staff get to know each student well and build warm, trusting relationships with them. As a result, students feel safe, settle quickly and grow in confidence. They enjoy being with their teachers and friends, and they are proud of their college.

Students enjoy their learning because it connects to their interests and to the world beyond the college. They serve customers in the ‘Trent Brew Cafe’, grow plants in the college gardens and use specialist equipment in the vehicle workshop. These experiences help students to see how their learning will be useful in their adult lives. Staff have high expectations of every student. They help students to overcome their barriers to learning so that they progress well through the curriculum. Students who study horticulture were recently recognised in a national competition, which is a source of great pride across the college.

Students attend college regularly. They behave well and treat staff and each other with kindness and respect. In lessons, students listen carefully, work together sensibly and help their peers. They persevere when they find work difficult and respond well to feedback from staff.

The college prepares students well for their next steps. Students learn how to keep themselves safe, including online, and how to become more independent in the community. They take part in a wide range of activities with local partners and employers that build their self-esteem and broaden their horizons. Students leave the college well prepared for further education, training, employment or supported living.

Parents and carers receive regular messages from staff that celebrate their child’s successes. Staff work closely with families so that they understand how best to support students at home. Students leave as confident young people who believe that they can achieve their ambitions.