North Kent College, incorporating Hadlow College, is delighted after receiving their latest Ofsted grading which saw the education watchdog rate them ‘Good’ overall, and with an assessment of ‘Outstanding’ in Behaviours and Attitudes.
Ofsted sent 14 inspectors to assess the provision across all campuses between 27th February to 1st March, The inspectors conducted “deep dives” into all areas of the college collecting a wide range of evidence to inform their judgements, consisting of visiting learning sessions, scrutinising learners' work, seeking the views of learners, staff and other stakeholders, and examining the provider's documentation and records.
The College were pleased to maintain its overall ‘Good’ rating, but a particular standout was the ‘Outstanding’ assessment in the Behaviours and Attitudes category, which considers how leaders and staff create a safe and calm learning environment across the College and how this will impact students’ behaviour and attitude.
The 14 strong inspection team were incredibly positive when it came to what it is like to study at the College saying: “Learners and apprentices rightly appreciate the welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment that staff create at North Kent College”, before concluding “learners develop into well-rounded, responsible individuals during their time at the college.”
This was further elaborated on, with Ofsted saying: “Learners and apprentices feel safe at college. They know who to talk to if they have a concern and are confident staff will take appropriate, swift action."
The College facilities and the role they play in preparing students to work in their chosen industry were praised, with the report saying: “Learners benefit significantly from the high-quality, often industry-standard resources that leaders provide. Musical theatre learners at Dartford justly appreciate the excellent performance and rehearsal spaces they practise and perform in, including the newly built Miskin Centre. At Hadlow, animal management learners benefit from working in a leading national centre for reptiles, developing their skills and understanding of exotic species. Consequently, most learners develop and hone industry-standard skills and knowledge that are valued by employers.”
The quality of teaching was another area the report highlighted, saying: “Teachers are experts in their subject and often have extensive industry experience. They use their understanding of workplace practices skilfully to help learners acquire substantial new knowledge, skills and behaviours that are valued by employers.”
David Gleed, Chief Executive and Executive Principal of North Kent College, said: "We are incredibly proud of our students and staff. Everyone was delighted to see the exemplary behaviour of our students supported by dedicated staff in great facilities being recognised. We continue our journey towards even greater achievements at the next OFSTED Inspection in a few years time.
North Kent College’s portfolio consists of four unique campuses located at Dartford, Gravesend, Tonbridge and Hadlow College, Kent’s only rural and land-based College.
It offers a range of qualifications for young people aged 16 and over and for adult learners, including Level 1, 2 and 3 qualifications, T Levels, Apprenticeships and Access to Higher Education Courses.
To read the full report visit the Ofsted website.