Havant and South Downs College judged to be good in latest Ofsted report

Havant and South Downs College was judged to be good in all areas apart from adult learning provision which was deemed to be outstanding.

Lead inspector, Emma Barrett-Peel, said: ‘Students and apprentices enjoy their learning at college and this shows in their positive approach to their studies. They take ownership of their learning, work hard and improve their confidence.

‘Students and apprentices benefit from teachers who plan learning well which enables them to quickly develop new knowledge and skills.’

Mrs Barrett-Peel also commended the college’s leadership and in particular its ‘strong governance’ and clear direction from the senior leadership team.

The report highlighted the breadth of curriculum offered to students along with a strong vocational element in preparing students for their future career and the role of teachers in utilising their previous employment to support learning.

The inspectors stated: ‘Leaders and managers have a clear rationale for the courses they offer. They have developed strong links with the local community that help them to understand local priorities. This has enabled leaders to introduce new courses such as digital journalism and specialist construction. As a result, courses meet local job-market needs and increase employment opportunities for students.

‘Well-qualified teachers use their high levels of vocational experience to help students and apprentices quickly develop new knowledge and skills.’

The inspection was the first to take place since the amalgamation of the college with Alton Sixth Form College.

SEE ALSO: From Kahoot to Google Classrooms - how staff at Havant & South Downs College carried on teaching virtually during lockdown

Principal Mike Gaston said: ‘Governors and I are delighted that the exceptional work carried out by our dedicated staff at all three campuses is reflected in this inspection report.

‘We are particularly pleased to see that Ofsted highlighted the fact that we were offering a carefully considered curriculum to meet the priorities and ambitions of our local communities.

‘As a strong tertiary college, our mission is very much to transform lives, raise aspirations and enable achievement. This report is testament to realising that ambition.’

The report also identified areas for improvement including the development of ‘weaker teachers’ and the impact of student participation in extra-curricular activities.

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