STAFF and students at New College have been praised by Ofsted for preparing their students for the job market.

The College in Queen’s Drive, which has received ‘good’ and ‘outstanding’ grades since the year 2000, was awarded a good by the education watchdog this time.

Success rates for apprentices and learners studying courses in the workplace were also rated outstanding.

Principal Graham Taylor said: “We are pleased that we have been graded good and outstanding for our extensive apprenticeship and workplace learning provision.

“In the latest round of inspections for FE Colleges 14 out of 19 have been given ‘requires improvement’ grades so we have come out very well.

“However, we were disappointed not to get outstanding in more areas as our results clearly show that we are. Overall we are five percentage points above the national average for outcomes – success rates.

“Ofsted focus on a sample of classes and make judgements on what they see rather than what goes on over the years.

“Ofsted is in the process of reviewing their evaluation system.

“It certainly doesn’t reflect the profile of a modern FE College meeting learner needs around the country.

“We are not complacent and work hard to improve in areas where we need to. Learners matter most and I’m delighted that we continue to grow and prosper.

“It’s good that Ofsted acknowledged this.”

Inspectors praised New College for its good range of additional activities and events organised by staff and students.

And inspectors highlighted that learners develop useful and work-related personal and social skills.

Financial and resource management were described as very good, with learners valuing the high-quality specialist accommodation and facilities, which mirror the professional standards found in industry.

Employability initiatives were also highlighted, with Ofsted highlighting New College’s strong focus on developing learners’ work-related skills through a range of successful and, in many cases, innovative initiatives.

But inspectors also said that in order to become outstanding, teaching and learning needed to improve, in order for learners to attain higher grades.

To view the results of the report visit reports.ofsted.gov.uk inspection-reports/find-inspection-report/provider/ELS/130851.