Brockenhurst college rated ‘good’ overall by Ofsted inspectors

BROCKENHURST College leaders say they are proud of an Ofsted report which has rated them ‘good’ in all sectors.

Inspectors found that most learners and apprentices thrived in the “inclusive and supportive learning environment” that leaders and staff have created.

They also found students “develop substantial new knowledge and skills because of the high-quality teaching and support they receive”.

The inspectors praised the staff saying: “Highly experienced and qualified teachers plan the curriculum carefully and logically to ensure that learners and apprentices develop the knowledge and skills they need.”

Ofsted visited the college last autumn and found that it catered well for students who may need more support than others.

Inspectors said: “Most learners and apprentices develop their confidence and resilience successfully.

“They benefit from valuable initiatives such as the ‘change begins with me’ programme which improves their self-understanding and mental wellbeing.

“Learners with high needs grow in independence and make valued new friendships. Most learners participate in extra-curricular activities. As such they extend their social networks and develop their interests very well.”

The college operates a “zero tolerance” to bullying, the inspectors found, reporting: “Learners and apprentices feel safe at college and in the workplace. They know how to report concerns if needed. They value staff’s zero tolerance approach to bullying, discrimination and harassment and, as such, incidents are rare.”

Inspectors found there were a few areas where the college could improve such as the “quality of teachers’ developmental feedback” on a small amount of courses so that learners could “achieve the standards of which they are capable”.

Also to continue to “ensure that all apprentices achieve their qualifications successfully and in a timely manner”.

The college, they added, should make sure that all adult learners are “aware of the additional enrichment activities available to them through the college so that they benefit from opportunities to further develop their personal and social interests”.

Principal and CEO, Helen Odhams, who only joined Brockenhurst College in June 2023, said: “We are proud of the findings contained in our recent Ofsted report, and to have maintained our overall effectiveness grade of good.

“The report showed that the college continues to provide high-quality, all-round education for its students.

“This is testament to our hard-working staff, who deliver an ambitious, supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students – it also reflects the enthusiasm and dedication students show towards their learning.

“We take pride in making a real difference to the lives and futures of our students. This Ofsted report is evidence of that, and I am delighted for the whole college community.”