INSPECTORS have praised Huddersfield Technical College for its strong community links and student care.

In a report out today the college has been described as `outstanding' in its response to educational and social inclusion.

It has also been praised for good standards of teaching and improving students' success.

Following an inspection by Ofsted and the Adult Learning Inspectorate in February the college was praised for its work with schools, community organisations and local groups.

Inspectors said it provided a wide range of courses, to meet the needs of a complex and diverse community.

Inspectors said 94% of teaching was satisfactory or better and that in 62% of the lessons observed the standard of teaching was good, very good or excellent.

Of the 13 curriculum subjects inspected, three were good and nine satisfactory.

Health and social care, public services, literacy and numeracy, basic skills and helping students with learning difficulties or disabilities were `good'.

Students told the inspectors they liked the knowledgeable and helpful lecturers, the practical lessons, the effective tutorial support and the good links with industry that help to improve their job prospects.

The college's flexibility in meeting the needs of adult students and students with disabilities, its wide range of courses and the friendly and adult atmosphere were also praised.

The inspectors' report said the college was a friendly, open organisation that raised the aspirations of adults with low educational achievements and extended opportunities.

College principal and chief executive Chris Sadler said: "The main inspector commented the college was vital to the community.

"This is a good college, employing excellent staff who care about students. There is much to celebrate. "

The college has 23,000 students on over 1,000 full and part-time and adult courses.