Inspector gives top grade to college
Jul 26 2008 by Paul James, The Journal
STAFF at Newcastle College were celebrating last night after receiving the best results inspectors can give.
The college received an outstanding report in all areas from Ofsted, placing it among the top schools and colleges in the UK.
It was praised for its outstanding student guidance and support, effective teaching, training and learning, and meeting the needs and interests of its students.
The inspectors also mentioned the college’s empowering culture that raises aspirations of students, staff and key stakeholders, its exceptionally well-managed merger with Skelmersdale and Ormskirk College in Lancashire, its high success rates and its exceptional and innovative employer engagement.
The college’s management and leadership were also considered outstanding as was the principal’s vision.
Yesterday Jackie Fisher, principal and chief executive of Newcastle College, spoke of her delight at the outstanding results.
She said: “This is a momentous occasion in the college’s history. These results are testimony to the effort and commitment shown by everyone at the college.
“Crucially, our hard work is paying off in high retention and pass rates among students and a reputation for excellence in all areas.”
Jamie Martin, chair of governors, dedicated the results to everyone involved in the college’s success.
He said: “We are immensely proud of all the staff at Newcastle College.
“This is a fantastic achievement for everybody connected with the college.”
The college was given just one area for improvement – success rates in a minority of courses.
Business representatives and students were also interviewed as part of the inspection and further endorsed the inspector’s judgments.
Students highlighted their friendly and supportive relations with teachers, the welcoming and safe learning environment, good tutorial support and range of specialist and general resources available at the college.
The college is currently adding a new sixth form college and a £1.3m Aviation Academy to its estates portfolio.
It also recently saw the opening of an £8.6m Business Centre – the Sandyford Building.
