Good news for MidKent College

Following a full inspection in November, MidKent College is delighted to be recognised by Ofsted as a Good education provider in a report published today.

The report describes a "student-centred" College which puts students at the heart of every decision and is geared towards providing the best teaching and support possible. This helps students to enjoy College life and behave well; they speak positively about their experiences and are proud of what they achieve. This focus on students is driven by the passion and determination of staff, who demonstrated that they are proud to work for the College, and of the impact they make on their students.

Staff celebrate MidKent College's GOOD Ofsted ratingInspectors were impressed with standards at the College and in particular, praised the quality of teaching, learning and assessment and the results achieved by young people and adults completing qualifications at the College's campuses in Maidstone and Medway.

Leaders and managers have addressed the areas for improvement identified in a previous inspection, and the report concludes that the College's provision is now 'good', with a high number of students who successfully achieve their qualifications.

As a technical and professional learning provider, the College is pleased that inspectors noted the impact of its focus on preparing students for work through 'excellent' work placements, positive relationships with local employers, good standards of work for apprentices in the workplace, and the effectiveness of advice and guidance to help them shape their career aspirations.

College Principal Simon Cook said:

"Maidstone and Medway deserve a strong local College where students can enjoy their studies, grow as professionals, and above all else, where students make progress and achieve the qualifications that they need for their next steps.

We're proud to be that College, and thrilled that this report recognises the impact we have in helping our students achieve their potential."

Other highlights from the report:

A comprehensive range of support services helps students to maintain healthy minds, bodies and attitudes to learning Students benefit from a wide range of enrichment activities that develop and extend their personal and social skills Apprentices are smart, well-presented and work hard. Arrangements for safeguarding are effective. Students and apprentices feel safe and are safe Students with high needs develop the skills they need for future employment A wide range of courses for adult students help those returning to education Teachers and assessors are experts in the subjects that they teach Staff support students with complex and challenging difficulties successfully Staff engage fully in a strong programme of professional development, which drives improvement in teaching, learning and assessment Leaders and managers plan the curriculum to meet local and regional skills needs Managers and staff work well with employers Governors have high aspirations, involve themselves fully in the life of the College and work effectively with senior leaders. You can read the report in full here.