Author Archives: Gareth Hall
Students were collecting their A-Level and B-Tec Qualification results at the Guisborough College last week.
Students at the end of their time with Prior Pursglove College have praised the supportive teaching staff and friendly atmosphere at the Guisborough College, as they collected their A-Level results and B-Tec qualifications today.
The college reached a 97% pass-rate for A-Levels, including more than 40% at the high grades of A* to B.
Olivia Wytcherley, head of Prior Pursglove College, part of the Atomix Educational Trust, said the atmosphere at the college had been “fantastic,” as students collected their results.
“Students have performed brilliantly, and they’re going on to a range of destinations from Oxford and Cambridge to apprenticeships and employment,” she said.
This year, more Prior Pursglove students than before have been meeting or exceeding their target grades.
For B-Tec qualifications, 46% of students on these courses achieved a Distinction * or a Distinction.
Olivia said: “It’s amazing the range of emotions you get on results day.
“For teachers, it’s particularly pleasing to see those students who have overcome certain challenges while they have been here getting their results and seeing their hard work pay off.
“When students who have faced challenges or barriers achieve, witnessing that is what teachers go into education for.
“They are the students you come to work for.”
Olivia added the many teachers and managers, who attended the results day, also like to hear about the exciting opportunities they have helped students secure for next steps.
“For some students at the college, they will be the first people in their family to go to University,” she said.
“On results day, you see the life-changing side of qualifications that enable them to do that.
“When you hear them say they wouldn’t have reached this level unless they were encouraged by the staff here, that’s really rewarding.”
However, it’s not just about the teaching, as Olivia says staff are instrumental in helping them make the right decisions for them when it comes to their next steps.
“Some of our high flyers are doing degree apprenticeships and some are going straight into employment,” she said.
“We help them with whatever they need regardless of their next steps, whether it’s CV-writing, writing personal statements for university or helping them with interview techniques.
“It’s very important that the experience we deliver is not just around the academic teaching.”
All ten students who received an offer from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge have secured their places, the college’s best ever result:
Oxford
Alastair Dicken (Sacred Heart)– Biochemistry at Merton College:
Oliver Amor (UCA) got A*s in Chemistry, Physics, Maths, and Further Maths.
“I’m going to study Chemistry at Oxford, Christchurch College,” he said.
“The teachers here are attentive and helpful, and it’s a wonderful environment.”
Also going to Oxford:
SU Vice President Lola Steinhauser Somers (Ryedale) to read PPE at Wadham College and Lucy Kelly (Rye Hills) to read Biology at Merton College.
Megan Kelly (All Saints) studied Classical Civilisations, Spanish, and History.
“I got an A* in History, an A* in Spanish, and two As in my other subjects,” she said.
“I’m going to Oxford to study Spanish with Beginner’s Russian at Queen’s College
“The one word I’d use to describe my time here is “support” – everyone from staff to students has been supportive. I wouldn’t have applied to Oxford if it wasn’t for my teachers.”
Lydia Walker (Rye Hills) is going to St Anne’s College to study Geography, after achieving an A* in Geography and As in Geology, Law and her EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).
She said: “I am really happy with my results and looking forward to going to Oxford to study Geography.
“I love the subject – it’s so broad – and Oxford is such a lovely University.
Lydia attended a summer school at the university before being encouraged to apply to study there, after doing a presentation at Christchurch College.
“I still can’t believe I actually got in,” she said.
“I’m going in October and I’m excited about it – I’m not nervous at all yet!
“My Mam got to travel down with me at one point and she liked it even though it’s four or five hours away, so we are all looking forward to it.”
Cambridge:
Holly Buckworth (Stokesley) – Natural Sciences at Fitzwilliam College
Sam Watson (Outwood Bydales) – Natural Sciences at Jesus College. Sam’s mum, Louise, also works at the college:
Athlete Matthew Downs (LJS) got A*s in Geography, Geology, and Biology.
While studying for his A-Levels, he also travelled to Spain to compete in the Aquathlon at the World Championships, facing the gruelling challenge of a one-kilometre open water swim followed immediately by a five-kilometre run.
“I’m going to study Geography at Cambridge,” he said.
“I also competed at the World Championships Aquathlon in Spain, finishing ninth.
“Balancing training and A-levels was challenging, but I enjoyed my time here.”
Sam Eddon (Freebrough) is also going to Cambridge to read Classics at Girton College
Stacey Williams studied Business and Maths.
“I got an A in maths and an A* in business,” she said.
“I’m going on to do an apprenticeship in accounting in September.
Speaking of life at Prior Pursglove College, she added: It’s been one of the most fun times of my life – very interesting and educational as well.”
Daisy Jackson studied Media Studies, Film Studies, and English Language & Literature, achieving an A in Media, an A in Film, and an A in English, which has led on to a Film and Television Production course at the University of York.
Speaking of life at Prior, Daisy said: “It’s been great – I’ve made lots of friends and had a really good time.”
Patrick Carter achieved Ds in Criminology and English and a Distinction in Law. He is now off to study Law at Northumbria University.
He said: “It wasn’t what I was targeted to achieve but I did my best and I’ve got to where I want to be at the end of the day.
“I want to be a law teacher eventually.”
Patrick, who was named ‘lead ambassador’ for the college in second year, admits he found College a lot tougher than secondary school, but the support of staff had been “really good”.
“I couldn’t recommend Prior Pursglove enough,” he said.
“It’s not just here for A-levels, there is an academic side but there is also a vocational side with B-Tec qualifications you can study for.
“My confidence has grown since becoming an ambassador and attending open days and promoting the college, so it’s not just about what you learn academically, as being at this college helps you build confidence.”
Angela Stephenson, deputy head at Prior Pursglove, said: “We aim to offer an inclusive and diverse curriculum where you can do a B-Tec or you can go down the traditional A-Level route – or you can also mix and match the two.
“We also have a new T-Level qualification we will be offering in Early Years in Education, which is starting in September.”
She added everyone at the college prides themselves on offering support and encouragement, saying: “We’re passionate about the sense of community and care we provide here.
“We want learners to achieve and do the best that they can do and we really want to be there helping them prepare for their next steps.”
Luke Myer, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland congratulated students as they picked up their results.
A former alumnus of Prior Pursglove College, he said: “I’m really proud to be back at Prior Pursglove, my old college, and I’m here today as MP to congratulate all the young people on their results.
“I have been blown away by the incredible young people we have got here.
“I also want to add that if you didn’t get the results you wanted, this is just one step in your journey.”
Remembering getting his own results, he added: “I was really nervous, but the staff were so supportive and being here gave me the foundation to go on in life and succeed.
“I’m really pleased we’ve got a college that works so hard to give young people the best opportunities.”
Enrolment for prospective students starts at the college on 21st August and we look forward to welcoming everyone.
Aviation is taking flight here at Stockton Sixth Form College as we launch our pioneering Aviation Operations programme in collaboration with Aviation Generation (AvGen). This exciting new course is set to provide local students with unparalleled opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, Aviation.
As the only college outside London to offer this industry-led qualification, we are placing ourselves firmly on the aviation education map. Backed by global aviation leaders including British Airways, Boeing, Embraer and Heathrow Airport, the programme connects students directly with the skills and experience needed for a future in aviation. From flight operations and engineering to sustainability and airport logistics.
The college celebrated the course launch with a special event that saw three lucky students from Errington Primary School get their first taste of the skies. For the first time, they experienced what it’s like to fly using a state-of-the-art warrior Piper Warrior simulator, designed to replicate real-life pilot training. Their awe and excitement were clear, as they sat in the cockpit of a Piper Warrior simulator, guided by our own tutor and Pilot Paul Keenen.
BBC Look North was on site to capture the magic, and their full feature will be broadcast at 6:30pm on Wednesday 2 July. Shining a spotlight on this groundbreaking initiative and the young students who dared to dream of flying.
Dr Nichole Munro, CEO of Atomix Educational Trust, said:
“This programme represents a powerful step forward for education in Stockton-on-Tees. We’re building genuine pathways that connect young people directly to world-class industries. Our partnership with Aviation Generation shows our dedication to transforming potential into real-world achievement.”
The Aviation Operations course isn’t just about theory, it’s about hands-on learning. From Industry-grade flight simulators, and exclusive masterclasses with aviation professionals this course has it all for our learners starting in September. With internships, site visits and mentoring from industry giants, the programme delivers on its promise to bring the cockpit into the classroom.
“This partnership brings the cockpit to the classroom in ways we’ve never seen before,” said Dr Noel Dennis, Director of Business Development at Atomix Educational Trust.
Mike Mackin, Head of Centre at Stockton Sixth Form, added:
“This course is a game-changer for our region. It removes barriers and makes high-value aviation careers accessible to students across Teesside. Talent, not geography, will define our students’ futures.”
Simon Witts of Aviation Generation praised the partnership:
“Stockton’s commitment to immersive, authentic training is inspiring. Together, we’re preparing the next generation to innovate and lead the future of aviation.”
Councillor Clare Besford, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “It’s great that young people in Stockton-on-Tees will be able to access this course and world-class aviation facilities on their doorstep. It means that people interested in this career path don’t have to travel outside of the Borough to study, learn new skills in this sector – and it opens the doors to exciting opportunities with leading airlines and employers in the sector.”
With global passenger numbers expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025, demand for aviation professionals is soaring. Stockton Sixth Form’s new programme ensures Teesside’s students are ready to meet that demand.
Prospective students and families are invited to the Aviation Course Public Launch on Thursday 18th September. Visitors will have the chance to explore the facilities, meet airline partners, and even try flying a simulator themselves.
For the young dreamers of Stockton-on-Tees, the sky is no longer the limit, it’s just the beginning.
The exceptional expertise at Bishopton shines through in how our educators seamlessly weave important social themes into everyday learning, creating powerful educational moments that resonate far beyond the classroom. Last week, students have been exploring Pride themes across their curriculum in thoughtful and engaging ways that bring vital historical perspectives to life.
In mathematics, students tackled code-breaking challenges using cipher wheels to decode seemingly meaningless sentences. This hands-on activity naturally led to discussions about Alan Turing, whose groundbreaking work helped secure victory in World War Two through his codebreaking expertise at Bletchley Park. The lesson took on deeper meaning as students learned about the tragic injustice Turing faced – despite his heroic contributions to the war effort, he was prosecuted for his homosexuality and tragically took his own life in 1954.
These conversations allowed students to reflect on how society has changed and why Pride matters today. They considered the profound unfairness of how brilliant individuals like Turing were treated, sparking meaningful discussions about acceptance, equality, and the importance of celebrating diversity in all its forms.
In the kitchen, students channelled their creativity and practical skills into baking Pride-themed cakes, expertly layering different coloured cake mixtures to create beautiful marble effects that celebrated the vibrant colours of Pride. This hands-on approach allowed them to express their support for equality whilst developing valuable culinary techniques.
It’s inspiring to see how our educators at Bishopton create opportunities for students to engage with both academic content and vital life lessons about respect, inclusion, and human dignity through their skilled teaching approach.
The thoughtful way our students approached these discussions demonstrates their growing understanding of empathy and social justice – qualities that will serve them well as they continue their educational journey.
On Wednesday 7th May, Prior Pursglove College hosted a landmark Power of Women event that brought together students from both Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College with 28 inspirational female industry leaders. The event, organised by Lesley Currie, Head of Department at Prior Pursglove, and Sophie McKenna, created a dynamic platform for students to connect with successful professionals and explore diverse career pathways.
The afternoon began with a vibrant networking masterclass and icebreaker “bingo” session, designed to build connections in a relaxed environment. Students then gained invaluable insights during a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring Theresa Carling, Sarah Heward, Kay Coleman and Christine Tarran, who shared their personal career journeys and professional experiences.
One of the highlights of the day was an energetic speed networking carousel, giving students the unique opportunity to engage directly with professionals from various sectors in rapid-fire conversations. This format allowed participants to ask questions and receive personalised advice in an intimate setting.
The event culminated with an inspirational keynote address from Bianca Robinson, who captivated the audience with her powerful message. Her presentation included a reflective activity titled “What Do You Stand For?”, encouraging students to identify causes they care about and commit to taking meaningful action. Many students volunteered their thoughts, creating a moment of genuine connection and purpose.
Michaela Reaney expertly hosted the proceedings, ensuring the day flowed seamlessly and maintained its focus on empowerment and opportunity.
Angela Stevenson, Deputy Head of Centre at Prior Pursglove College, reflected on the day’s success: “What an amazing day at Prior Pursglove College and Atomix Educational Trust. From network bingo to the role model panel, speed networking, and Bianca’s very inspirational talk—thank you to all the role models and our amazing students for attending, taking part and volunteering ideas and thoughts.”
The event exemplified Atomix Educational Trust’s commitment to providing students with experiences that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for future careers by connecting them with industry professionals and developing crucial networking skills.
Students left feeling inspired and equipped with practical advice for their next steps, having formed connections with successful women across various professions. The Power of Women event stands as a testament to Atomix Educational Trust’s dedication to empowering students and broadening their horizons as they prepare for life beyond college.
Errington Primary School has embarked on an exciting new journey to redesign their school crest, with pupils taking centre stage in the creative process.
Headteacher Sarah Rule introduced the project during a special assembly, explaining how important it is for the school’s visual identity to reflect both its heritage and its distinctive character. The redesign will maintain elements of the traditional Errington boat, whilst incorporating features that showcase what makes the school unique today.
All pupils aged 5-11 have been invited to contribute their ideas through specially designed worksheets, encouraging them to think creatively about the symbols, colours and imagery that best represent their school experience. This inclusive approach ensures that every child has the opportunity to shape the future identity of their school.
The logo redesign project aligns perfectly with Atomix Educational Trust’s commitment to student engagement and community involvement. By giving pupils a voice in this important decision, Errington Primary is fostering a sense of ownership and pride whilst developing creative skills.
The school will be collecting design submissions over the coming weeks, with plans to shortlist the most promising concepts for further development with design professionals. The new crest is expected to be unveiled later this term, marking an exciting new chapter for this outstanding primary school.
Errington Primary School has welcomed a talented new addition to its catering team, bringing a wealth of culinary experience and a fresh approach to school meals. With 15 years in the hospitality industry working in pubs and restaurants, Richard Earl has quickly become an integral part of the Errington family, revolutionising the school dining experience.
Since joining Errington, Richard has been focused on creating a balanced menu that satisfies government nutritional guidelines while also appealing to the varied palates of our young diners. “Every day brings a new challenge to the menu,” he explains. “I’m constantly trying to find that balance between nutritious food and ensuring full bellies at the end of the day.”
One of the most impressive aspects of Richard’s approach has been his engagement with the school community. During a recent parents’ evening, he took the initiative to showcase a selection of school meals and speak directly with families. This personal approach allowed him to better understand what children eat at home and what might entice packed lunch pupils to try school dinners.
“I’ve got a list of children who only eat certain things or have specific dietary requirements,” Richard shares. “I’ll break my back to make sure they’ve got a meal or menu that keeps both them and their parents happy.” This personalised strategy has yielded impressive results, with an additional ten children switching from packed lunches to school meals following these conversations.
As a parent himself, Richard understands the challenges families face and the importance of ensuring children receive a proper meal during their school day. His commitment extends to accommodating allergies and food preferences, keeping detailed records to ensure every child’s needs are met.
The chef has also involved pupils in menu planning, asking teachers to gather feedback from their classes about favourite foods. While some ambitious requests (such as McDonald’s!) might be beyond the scope of school catering, many pupil suggestions are being incorporated into upcoming menus. “Over the next few weeks, the children’s menu choices are starting to come into play,” Richard explains, balancing these preferences with nutritional guidelines.
Currently, Monday’s pizza day ranks as the most popular mealtime, but new options are continuously being introduced.
Richard’s team has adapted brilliantly to the new approach, bringing their valuable knowledge of the children’s preferences to complement his culinary expertise. “The team has been fantastic,” he acknowledges. “They know the children better than I do because they’ve been here for quite a while.”
Looking ahead, Richard hopes to reach out to more parents of children with specific eating patterns to further understand their home eating habits and create even more inclusive meal options. This collaborative approach between chef, parents, and pupils exemplifies our commitment to nurturing the whole child.
At Atomix Educational Trust, we are immensely proud of what Richard Earl has accomplished in the short time he’s been with us at Errington Primary. His innovative approach to school catering, genuine care for children’s wellbeing, and determination to provide meals that are both nutritious and appealing demonstrates the positive impact that passionate staff can have on our school communities. We look forward to seeing how his creative influence continues to transform the dining experience for our pupils in the months ahead.
The UK’s best teachers and schools have been shortlisted in this year’s Tes Schools Awards. The awards, dubbed the ‘Oscars of education’, celebrate the best of education across the country. Stockton Sixth Form and Prior Pursglove College has been shortlisted in the category of Staff Wellbeing School of the Year!
The Tes Schools Awards recognise the very best teachers and schools from UK state and independent schools, across early years settings, primary and secondary.
An expert panel of judges comprised of leaders in education selected a shortlist for 22 categories, with a new category added this year: ‘Inclusive Trust of the Year’. The final category, ‘Lifetime achievement award’, will be announced on the night.
Jon Severs, Editor of Tes Magazine, said: “We’ve seen some incredible entries nominated in this year’s awards. The Tes Schools Awards are a highlight of the year, and it’s important that we properly recognise the fantastic work that’s been done in education across the academic year.”
Winners will be announced on 20th June at a glittering gala at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London.
To find the shortlist online, please visit https://www.tes.com/en-gb/schools-awards
At Atomix Educational Trust, we believe education is about more than qualifications—it’s about finding yourself and your place in the world. This is beautifully illustrated through the journey of Lucy, a former Prior Pursglove College student whose path demonstrates how the right support can make all the difference.
Lucy’s four years at Prior Pursglove College were transformative, particularly through her connection with the college’s therapy service. Like many young people, Lucy faced challenges during her studies. What made the difference was when a perceptive teacher noticed Lucy needed support and connected her with the college’s counselling service.
“The teacher realised what I was doing to avoid my own struggles,” Lucy reflects. “She took me to someone called June and asked me to complete a therapy form.”
This intervention led to Lucy receiving regular therapy sessions with a counsellor named Adele, who became a pivotal figure in her development. “From the counselling service, it created a safe place, someone that I could talk to in a non-judgmental environment,” Lucy explains.
The therapy provided not just immediate support but also equipped Lucy with strategies for the future. “Adele created great strategies for me to handle things when she wasn’t there,” Lucy shared. This foundation of support empowered her to take on new challenges, including participation in the Head Start project where she spoke to 33 different groups about hidden disabilities.
Lucy’s experience at Prior Pursglove College didn’t just help her cope—it inspired her to help others. Through her involvement with the Head Start project, Lucy shared her experiences with hundreds of students, promoting the positive message that showing vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
“It’s not a negative thing to show weakness,” Lucy emphasised during these presentations, challenging stigma and helping others understand hidden disabilities better.
Lucy’s journey has now brought her to The Glowsticks Project, a charity supporting individuals with autism and ADHD. The charity’s new social enterprise café in Middlesbrough provides a welcoming space for neurodivergent individuals to gather, socialise, and volunteer.
For Lucy, The Glowsticks Project represents more than just a volunteering opportunity—it’s a place where she truly belongs. “I am in a supportive environment where I don’t have to hide away,” she says with evident joy. “I can be myself.”
What makes The Glowsticks Project special for Lucy is the genuine understanding she’s found there. “Within probably half an hour of talking to Rebecca [the founder], I knew she got me and she knew me for me, which I’ve never had before.”
Lucy has thrived in this environment, moving from volunteer to support worker, and is now preparing to give back to the college that supported her by returning to Prior Pursglove College to support young people with autism and learning disabilities.
“I am going to be supporting the young people who have autism and learning disabilities at Prior,” Lucy explains, excited about coming full circle in her journey.
The Heart Behind The Glowsticks Project
The Glowsticks Project was founded by Rebecca, who created the charity from personal experience. Rebecca, who is neurodivergent herself and has a 9-year-old son with autism, understood firsthand the challenges of finding a place to belong.
“I was struggling to find anywhere that I could be,” Rebecca explains. “I’ve kind of all my life spent with those typical autistic things, struggling with friendships, struggling to fit in, struggling to hold employment. I’ve just had enough.”
Her solution was to create a space specifically designed for neurodivergent individuals. “I was loving surrounding myself with people who were neurodivergent and have really started to feel like I found my people,” she says. “Let’s make this a thing. Let’s start creating somewhere people feel safe.”
The name The Glowsticks Project carries a beautiful message: “It’s me saying it’s OK to be a glow stick, because even if you’re a bit broken, you can still shine.”
The café is more than just a place to get coffee—it’s a carefully crafted environment where everyone feels welcome. “We just want to welcome everyone and it’s to be a safe space,” Rebecca says. The café offers various activities including art therapy, forest school, chess club, and board games, creating multiple ways for people to connect and engage.
A Growing Community
The impact of The Glowsticks Project is already evident in the stories of those who have found solace there. Rebecca shares how people who initially came with low confidence are now blossoming, finding employment, and developing new skills.
“Everyone has a place here,” Rebecca emphasises. “It doesn’t matter who you are, it doesn’t matter what you’re good at, and it certainly doesn’t matter what you don’t think you’ll be good at—everyone has a place here.”
The café is becoming a hub for the community, with organisations like ESPA booking the space for events, and individuals discovering talents they can share with others through classes and workshops.
Visit The Glowsticks Project Café
The Glowsticks Project Café is open to the public Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am to 2:00 pm. On Mondays, they offer specialist provision for under-5s and home-educated children. The café also offers various clubs and therapy sessions throughout the week.
Located in Middlesbrough, the café provides a tranquil environment where anyone can feel comfortable, whether they want to be treated like family or need some time to themselves.
In a glittering ceremony at Teesside International Airport, colleagues from across our educational settings came together to celebrate outstanding achievements and herald an exciting new era as Atomix Educational Trust. The evening of Tuesday, 18th February marked a significant milestone in our journey, combining our annual staff awards with the internal launch of our trust’s new identity.
The atmosphere was electric as staff members gathered to recognise and celebrate the exceptional contributions made across our family of schools and colleges. From innovative teaching approaches to outstanding support services, the awards highlighted the incredible dedication and passion that drives our educational community forward.
This year’s awards recognised excellence across five key categories:
The Innovation Award celebrated those who have revolutionised their approach to teaching or support roles, introducing creative solutions that enhance the learning experience for our students. Winners in this category demonstrated how thinking differently can transform educational outcomes.
The Core Values Award recognised individuals whose daily actions exemplify the fundamental principles that guide our trust. These staff members consistently demonstrate our commitment to inclusive, innovative education and show unwavering dedication to transforming lives through learning.
Leadership Excellence was awarded to those who have shown exceptional guidance and inspiration to others, fostering an environment where both colleagues and students can thrive and achieve their full potential.
The Extra Mile Award highlighted those special individuals who consistently go beyond expectations, demonstrating extraordinary commitment to supporting students and colleagues alike. Their dedication makes a real difference to our educational community every single day.
Perhaps most touching was the Unsung Hero Award, which shone a spotlight on those quiet achievers whose consistent dedication often goes unnoticed but forms the backbone of our educational community. These individuals deliver excellence day after day with minimal fuss, making an immeasurable impact on our students’ lives.
The evening also marked the internal launch of Atomix Educational Trust, symbolising more than just a name change. It represents our vision for innovative, inclusive education that prepares students for success in an ever-evolving world. The transformation to Atomix Educational Trust embodies our commitment to three key pillars: mental health and wellbeing, international perspectives, and employability – principles that will define our approach to education moving forward.
The combination of celebrating current achievements while looking to the future perfectly captured the spirit of Atomix Educational Trust. As we continue our mission to transform lives through collaborative, innovative education from early years to adulthood, the dedication and excellence demonstrated by our staff awards winners show that we are in excellent hands.
Congratulations to all our winners and nominees. Your passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence make our trust what it is today and will help shape what it becomes tomorrow.
After waiting with bated breath, we finally received the call to say that Ofsted would visit in the penultimate week of the autumn term for a short inspection.
As a 16-19 academy rated as ‘Good’ at the previous inspection, we knew that, all being well, we should receive a short inspection, as per the instructions in the handbook, to check that we were still a ‘Good’ college.
At the planning call with the inspection team, we agreed the curriculum areas for Deep Dive: Skills for Development including FS English and A level Biology at Prior Pursglove and level 3 Health and Social Care and A level Maths at Stockton. The inspection team consisted of 3 inspectors: 2 based at PPC, including the lead inspector, and 1 at SSFC. The inspection team were very approachable and supportive throughout the entire inspection and ensured that communication was clear at all times.
Day one started with deep dives in Skills for Development and Health and Social Care. The intent meetings allowed staff to help inspectors to understand the intent of their curriculum in terms of the learners’ needs e.g. for those with EHCPs or learners that have a specific career pathway in mind and how it links to labour market information and the LSIP. For Health and Social Care the destinations achieved by learners was a point of real strength. In Skills for Development, a SEND golden thread was identified as the managers, teachers and learners were able to demonstrate the close link between curriculum intent, careers, advice and guidance to enrol learners on the right study programme and the progress made by learners over time. The inspector was so impressed as she was gifted one of the products made for the Christmas market.
On the second day of inspection, A level Biology and A level Maths were the focus of the Deep Dives and more strengths shone through. In both areas the inspectors identified clear sequencing of the curriculum, use of effective teaching strategies to help learners learn and remember more and achieve well at the end of their courses. Destinations were also recognised as a strength in both areas.
In addition to these positive themes coming from subject areas, inspectors were impressed by how well EHCP documents were use to plan and support learners. Safeguarding was described as effective and the lead inspector also commented on how well our learners could articulate key themes linked to keeping safe.
Finding out by lunchtime on the second day that they had gathered sufficient evidence to make a judgement and were happy to complete the inspection on that day was a welcome relief for all. Getting ready for and taking part in the inspection was an absolute team effort across both sites and the ‘can do’ attitude of staff made us all proud to be part of the college community. This outcome provides us with an excellent platform to drive further improvements at the college to become the best we can be.
