The new academic year started on a real high for Ashton Sixth Form College. Ofsted recently graded Ashton Sixth Form College a ‘good’ college with a number of ‘outstanding’ features.

The report followed a thorough 4 day visit in September 2011.

Inspectors concluded that Ashton Sixth Form College is not only a ‘good’ college but has several ‘outstanding’ features which achieved the highest grades possible in our inspection. This confirms Ashton Sixth Form College’s position among the top colleges across the country for success rates and value added. It was noted that many of the students at Ashton Sixth Form College make ‘exceptional’ progress with high numbers progressing to Higher Education.

Good teaching and learning, high-quality care, guidance and support and a safe, harmonious atmosphere on the campus all helped the college make the grade. The college was also commended for its outstanding partnerships and contribution to the local community.

Similarly, it found that students enjoy their studies and feel completely safe. They comment very positively about the security arrangements in the college, which are deemed to be outstanding.

Inspector, Patrick Geraghty HMI, said in his report:

“The college offers a very wide and inclusive range of provision which is highly responsive to local needs and national priorities. The range of subject enrichment is excellent.”   

He also reported that “success rates are improving and are at the high national average for A-Level results. There is a pattern of year-on-year improvement with high progression to Higher Education against a backdrop of low local participation. Success rates for Vocational Courses are high.”

He also added “The college is a harmonious and highly supportive community. Safeguarding arrangements are outstanding. Students feel very safe in college. Students also contribute very well to the local college community and the college’s engagement with students is outstanding. Systems to involve students in the college community are very effective.”

Inspectors recognised the college’s determination to become the very best.  They recognised that the college is relentless in its pursuit of excellence and in particular, ensuring that its students continue to outperform those students studying elsewhere.

Dr Janet Nevin, Principal, said “I am extremely pleased with the outcomes of the Inspection and am delighted that the college has been confirmed as ‘good’ with outstanding features. Inspectors commented on many outstanding areas and this reflects the hard work of Ashton Sixth Form College staff. The Inspectors confirm that the college is heading in the right direction to become outstanding overall.”

This year’s Ofsted report marks another step in the college’s transformation over recent years. The college continues to improve and develop its facilities, now boasting state-of-the-art learning environments, a brand new Performance theatre and all weather pitches. The college will be opening a brand new redevelopment of student social areas next year.