Ofsted Report
One Sixth Form College in Ipswich has wowed Ofsted during their latest inspection, being judged as ‘Outstanding’.
The Sixth Form is now amongst the first educational institutions in the East of England to get the highest possible grade under the new and more challenging Ofsted Framework.
Cover letter from Ofsted to Jake Robson, Head of Centre
This is the first inspection of the Sixth Form since joining with Suffolk Academies Trust and the Eastern Colleges Group in 2015 – with Ofsted heaping praise on its ‘inclusive’ approach and ‘high quality and bespoke learning programmes’.
Students reported that they felt valued and respected in a calm, professional yet friendly environment at the College, with excellent learning facilities and teaching.
Chief Executive Officer of the Eastern Colleges Group, Dr Nikos Savvas, said:
“When I first started to work with One, the College was in a different place. Since then every member of staff, student and the community have not only risen to the challenge of the last few years but they have flourished in doing so.
“What this shows is that we are fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, ambition as well as preparing young people for future employment. It also reflects how committed we are to excellence and bespoke learning, as well as listening and growing – giving our young people the challenges they need to thrive and the best platform for future success.
“Furthermore, under the new Ofsted Framework it is even more challenging to get the highest grade – so it is such an achievement to get an outstanding result. This result truly reflects how we are establishing One Sixth Form College as one of the leading further education colleges in the region.”
Jake Robson, the Head of Centre at One Sixth Form College, said:
“The report is a fantastic reflection of what we do on a daily basis. We’re so proud of our students and teachers for showing Ofsted what a wonderful place this is to study, grow and enhance opportunity. We have developed so much as a team over these last few challenging years, so this recognition is a real boost and we look forward to celebrating our achievements and sharing our success with our community.”
Ofsted visited the sixth form college for four days at the end of April - conducting a full review of every aspect of life at the One.
Key highlights from the report, are:
- Students identify One Sixth Form College as a very welcoming and friendly place to learn, where they grow in confidence and improve their self-esteem.
- Students, including those with high needs, make excellent progress. Teachers support students diligently to improve their work and to overcome barriers to their learning.
- Leaders monitor the quality of teaching effectively across the college. As a result, the quality of teaching is very high, and students enjoy their learning.
- Students are prepared exceptionally well for employment. Managers and teachers work closely with employers so that students develop the relevant skills for future employment.
- Students work well towards their qualifications and progress to chosen destinations.
- Many students are achieving high grades and moving to prestigious institutions
- Students with high needs achieve exceptionally well and gain relevant qualifications so that they can progress on to further study, internships or apprenticeships.
- Teaching staff, including those working with students with high needs, are highly qualified and experienced in their subject specialisms. They use their knowledge and skills adeptly to explain topics to students and to inspire and motivate them.
- Students’ behaviour is exceptionally good around the college, in classrooms and workshops.
