Ofsted result takes Newcastle College to top of league tables
OUTSTANDING – that was the overall verdict from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) following the recent inspection of Newcastle College, now one of the top-performing colleges in the UK.
In glowing feedback that put the achievements of Newcastle College among some of the very best results Ofsted has ever seen, the inspectors paid tribute to the inspirational leadership and vision of the principal, the inclusivity and learner focus of the college and the empowering culture that raises aspirations of learners, staff and key stakeholders.
Inspectors praised the college for its exceptional work with employers, in particular the achievement of apprenticeship frameworks and its success and retention in Train to Gain provision.
Business representatives and their employees were also interviewed as part of the inspection and further endorsed the inspector’s judgments.
In particular, they highlighted their friendly and supportive relations with lecturers; the welcoming and safe learning environment, good tutorial support and range of specialist and general resources available at the college.
Partnerships were also seen to be highly effective and the college is the preferred provider for many major companies and small employers. Provision was found to be responsive to local, regional and national priorities and strategic developments, and management of provision for employers in particular, work-based learning, is outstanding.
Jackie Fisher, principal and chief executive at Newcastle College, said: “This is a momentous occasion in the college’s history. These results are testimony to the effort and commitment shown by everyone at the college.
“Crucially, our hard work is paying off in high retention and pass rates amongst learners and a reputation for excellence in all areas.”
This achievement is even more notable after a merger with Skelmersdale and Ormskirk College last September, which was assessed as part of the inspection and also received excellent results, and its recent acquisition of parts of the former Carter and Carter Plc, now the Intraining Group.
The groups’ success follows a string of accolades over the past two years including Beacon status, North East Company of the Year 2005, three Association of Colleges Beacon Awards and most recently the Training Quality Standard which recognises and accredits those organisations which can demonstrate excellence in delivering training solutions to employers.
It is awarded to those organisations which can demonstrate robust quality processes and commitment to continuous improvement, with the aim of achieving long-term employer needs and tackling skills shortages.
Following a rigorous, independent review of its achievements in terms of quality, delivery and performance, Newcastle College and its School of Construction are now further recognised by employers and other stakeholders as a leading provider of training and development solutions.
From September 2008, the college will further strengthen its employer provision at its Hexham based site. As a direct response to feedback from local businesses it will be offering a wide variety of business, enterprise, creative and health and care courses needed to enhance the local economy and help make businesses more effective.
Chris Webb, director of business and care at Newcastle College, said: “One of our major strengths is our ability to offer training from a pre-entry level right through to foundation degrees.
“So whether you need a skills qualification, vocationally related certificate or a leadership and management qualification, we are well placed to deliver what you are looking for. We can offer complete flexibility in how you receive your training, whether it is onsite, offsite, or distance and e-learning.
“We will work around your requirements to ensure that the training you receive is at a time that is most appropriate for your business.”
Jamie Martin, chair of governors at Newcastle College, said: “We are immensely proud of all the staff at Newcastle College.
“The Ofsted results and the standard of our employer training are a fantastic achievement for everybody connected with the college – for our employers and stakeholders learners, parents and staff.”
For further information on courses at Newcastle College, call (0191) 200-4000.
Share
