STAFF and students at a North East college are celebrating its best ever report from Government inspectors.

Education watchdog Ofsted praised Northumberland College in its latest report, published today.

The inspectors noted a number of improvements across a range of subject areas, which have followed a turbulent time at the college.

The overall rating of “good”, which also comes after Ofsted introduced a tougher inspection regime in September, firmly places the college amongst the best performing in the region.

The report states “teaching, learning and assessment have improved markedly across the college”, and “levels of support for students are excellent, which is a key factor in motivating them to succeed”.

It adds: “Teachers have high expectations of their students and students benefit from highly skilled and experienced teachers with credible industry knowledge.”

The inspectors were particularly impressed with progress in a range of areas, from health and social care to animal care and environmental conservation.

The Ashington-based college says the report signals a more stable period for the college, which has suffered a number of setbacks in recent years.

These include financial difficulties, staffing changes, an aborted merger with NCG, the parent company of Newcastle College, and the collapse of major building projects.

In response to the challenges, in April 2012 the college appointed Jacqui Henderson as its new chair of governors and recruited six new governors.

Ms Henderson said: “This year has been a very challenging and rewarding one for Northumberland College.

“Everyone has worked extremely hard to ensure that students and customers have the best possible experience and outcome.

“We are appreciative of the considerable support we’ve been given by all of our stakeholders who can take pride in this Ofsted result.”

New principal Stuart Cutforth said: “Our Ofsted result is testimony to many factors that have made these improvements possible. This college has rigorous self assessment processes, a fantastic staff development scheme and a shared desire to achieve high standards for our students.”

He added: “Colleges need to respond to change and with increased expectation from students and all of our stakeholders we will continue to develop new ways of working to stay relevant and responsive in our delivery of quality training courses.

“This positive Ofsted outcome is a tribute to the hard work of our talented staff.”

To see the report in full, go to www.ofsted.gov.uk