New Malden SEND college celebrates third consecutive ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report
Orchard Hill College, an "outstanding" specialist college with nine "vibrant" centres across London, including New Malden, and Surrey, is celebrating its latest 'Outstanding' Ofsted report; the highest rating available, which also marks a significant milestone as the College's third consecutive Outstanding grade.
The College, which provides education and training to more than 500 students aged 16 – 25 with special education needs and/or disabilities (SEND), has been awarded 'Outstanding' in all categories by Ofsted.
Inspectors highlighted that the College has continued to be Outstanding in the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, adult learning programmes, and provision for learners with high needs.
The glowing report recognises how the College helps students thrive socially and academically, and states: "Students benefit greatly from a meticulously planned, highly individualised and ambitious curriculum' and 'consequently, the quality of education that students receive is outstanding".
It goes on to note the college has "highly adept and very well-trained staff" and that its students "are exceptionally well prepared for their next steps".
"In many instances, the progress students make is life changing," it said.
It especially noted that "leaders and managers have maintained high-quality provision through significant change and challenges'", which is a nod to the College having opened four new centres during this period whilst also successfully introducing new programmes such as supported internships.
Furthermore, in response to the demand for specialist post-16 provision in communities across London and Surrey, the college has more than doubled student numbers.
Impressed by the College's quality of education, and noting the students' exemplary behaviour and attendance, inspectors said: "Students, wherever they attend, hugely enjoy the highly inclusive, caring and supportive learning environment that staff create."
The excellent range of enrichment activities were also praised, with inspectors acknowledging how this helps to significantly strengthen students' links with their local community and build their confidence and social skills.
Kelly Phillips, Executive Principal, Orchard Hill College, said: "As highlighted in our Outstanding Ofsted report, Orchard Hill College continues to strive for ever greater standards for our staff and students, and we are all extremely proud to be recognised in this way; it is a tribute to everyone.
"As a leading SEND provider in communities across London and Surrey, the report is an accurate reflection of the high-quality educational experience we provide students."
She continued: "Importantly, our journey to 'Outstanding' could not have been achieved without the unconditional commitment of our staff who work incredibly hard to help students achieve their full potential, together with our partnership approach with families, carers, and the students themselves.
"It is an enormous privilege to support students with SEND and equip them with the skills needed in adulthood, there is an exciting future ahead, and this latest news is a celebration for the entire college community."
Orchard Hill College collaborates with 27 local authorities across London and Surrey, providing provision for a diverse SEND student population in local communities.
Share:
