A COLLEGE has been praised for the way it offers learning to all sections of the community.
Ofsted inspectors who visited Huddersfield Technical College described its response to social inclusion as “outstanding.”
The report said: “The college offers an exceptionally diverse range of learning opportunities to people of all ages in a multicultural community.
“Through open and effective partnerships, it provides well targeted learning.”
HTC has more than 20,000 students and offers courses at more than 30 sites across Kirklees.
Of the six curriculum areas inspected, three were graded as good (grade 2), two as satisfactory (grade 3), and one, ICT, as inadequate (grade 4).
Engineering and manufacturing technologies, construction, planning and the built environment and arts, media and publishing were graded as “good”.
The College was also praised for its work with schools, community organisations and employers and the quality of provision for work-based learning,
Effectiveness of provision, as well as leadership and management, were graded as satisfactory. Inspectors also stated that the college was in a good financial position and provides value for money.
Lessons were well planned and include a good range of activities that engage and challenge learners, says the report.
There are very effective links between the workplace and the college which reinforce learning. Learning resources are good in most areas with specialist resources being particularly good in arts and media and engineering.
Inspectors also commented that communication is strong and actions to improve student behaviour and attendance have been successful.
College principal and chief executive Chris Sadler said: “Inspectors recognised that the College has a lot to commend it.
“The report paints a picture of a College that is making progress and when judged against national standards is satisfactory or good and makes a significant contribution to the success of the community.
“Whilst it was disappointing to have ICT judged as inadequate, the report is characterised by numerous references to the areas of the College which are “good”.
“We are pleased that Ofsted also recognised the College’s considerable strengths. It does many things well but does not share this good practice as effectively as it should and this will be our challenge over the next 12 months, before Ofsted re-visit to check our progress.
“The report recognises the significant and positive role the college plays for Kirklees This is a good college employing excellent staff who care about students. It is a sound base for the proposed merger with Dewsbury College.
“We can share strengths in curriculum development and teaching to build a college that effectively addresses national and local priorities, as well providing stability and confidence to support first class education across the region for young people, adults and employers.”
