Solihull College & University Centre is delighted to have retained an Ofsted ‘Good’ rating following its recent inspection.
During the four-day inspection in March, all sites of the College were inspected, Blossomfield Campus near Solihull town centre, Woodlands Campus in Smiths Wood, and merger partner Stratford-upon-Avon College.
Thirteen members of Ofsted’s inspection team assessed 8 categories, including the quality of education, leadership and management, and apprenticeships. All 8 were rated as ‘Good’, and Ofsted remarked approvingly on the safe and secure environment the College fosters.
Acting Principal, Lindsey Stewart comments: “I am delighted with this inspection report. This is a real endorsement of the hard work and commitment of College staff. The last two years have been very challenging for our students, and I am very proud of the work we are doing with them to ensure they succeed and progress.”
The positive outcome of the Ofsted report follows a successful year for the College in which it has received a variety of accolades, including, achieving ‘Gold’ in recognition of its outstanding careers work, named as a ‘Commended College’ in the AoC Beacon Awards for Mental Health and Wellbeing, becoming the first College to join Sustainability West Midlands as a member, and awarded the full Rainbow Flag Award for its LGBT+ inclusion and visibility work.
The Ofsted report further cements the College’s position as one of the top FE Colleges in the region, with increasing enrolment numbers, the continual formation of strong partnerships with employers, and thousands of successful alumni in a variety of exciting industries.
The College is proud to share some of Ofsted’s key observations:
“Learners develop their independence and flourish in their local communities.”
“Learners develop a good understanding of the theoretical components of their subjects and demonstrate that they can apply this to their practical skills.”
“Teachers and assessors are well qualified and have strong links to industry.”
“Learners and apprentices talked positively about the supportive relationships they have built with staff, teachers, and assessors.”
“They [leaders and managers] have successfully developed a curriculum which meets local and regional skills needs.”
