Wiltshire College receives glowing Ofsted report

Wiltshire College is celebrating a successful Ofsted inspection which rated the college as ‘Good’.
The report found the college to have high expectations of students who benefit from effective teaching and support, and who have sustained good personal and academic outcomes over time.
The Ofsted Further Education and Skills inspection took place across the college’s four main campuses in Chippenham, Lackham, Trowbridge and Salisbury in May 2018 and inspectors found a consistent cross-college student-focused culture.
The findings note, “Students across all the campuses work together respectfully, are polite and behave courteously. You and your staff have created a welcoming family atmosphere,” while confirming the college’s existing ‘good’ Ofsted grade, awarded in 2015.
Amanda Burnside, Wiltshire College’s principal said, “The highly positive inspection outcomes confirm the great progress we continue to make on our journey to becoming outstanding and are exactly in line with our five-year strategy.
“I’m very proud of what staff have achieved in the last three years with a relentless focus on the student experience.”
The five members of the Ofsted inspection team also reported on a number of other strengths in the college.
The report stated, “Pass rates of students taking English and mathematics GCSE and functional skills qualifications have increased and are above national achievement rates. The achievement of adult students and apprentices has remained high.
“Students receive highly appropriate and helpful advice and guidance before they start their courses and during their courses. The guidance for students in their tutorial programme complements the very good resources and extensive careers service for all students. They also benefit from access to well-established links with external agencies and specialist impartial advice.
“Teachers’ careful monitoring of the progress of students motivates students, who work enthusiastically towards achieving their goals. Teachers assess work carefully in line with the college’s assessment approach, explaining how they have met standards.
“Safeguarding procedures and practices are comprehensive and thorough. Students feel safe at college. They know how to recognise and report safeguarding concerns and where to get help if they need it.
“Students and staff are highly supportive of the college’s excellent arrangements to care for the physical and mental well-being of students. Teachers, staff and students carefully adhere to health and safety rules.”