Cornwall College Group celebrates historic Ofsted ‘Outstanding’

In a huge boost for learners, businesses and communities in Cornwall and Devon, Cornwall College Group (CCG) is officially ‘Outstanding’.

Following a week-long inspection by Ofsted, a glowing report praised CCG on its commitment to “exceptional learning opportunities”, “highly effective partnerships to meet the local training needs” and learners who are “highly motivated to learn in aspirational environments”.

Principal and CEO, Rob Bosworth, expressed immense pride in the achievement.

“This is an historic moment for Cornwall College Group, and is an outcome of the relentless dedication of our staff, the ambition of our learners and the invaluable support of our partners,” he said.

“We are a group consisting of place-based, local colleges, and this Ofsted report belongs to everyone in Cornwall and Devon, not just the college. It highlights how our colleges are at the very heart of the communities we serve, and reflects how hard we work in partnership to deliver Outstanding outcomes. Businesses and local stakeholders can be confident they will achieve their goals and ambitions with us, as we transform lives and help drive economic growth in Cornwall and Devon.”

Inspectors praised the group of colleges, noting the “excellent learning spaces that staff have created contribute to learners and apprentices being highly motivated”, while providing “an inclusive, welcoming and caring environment”.

“Leaders successfully and effectively use partnerships to meet training needs in Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and Devon,” the report revealed.

“They collaborate with stakeholders like Cornwall Council and education partners, aligning the curriculum with local skills demands.”

The report also commended the college’s ability to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive, making a tangible impact on the region’s workforce and economy.

Mark Wardle, Deputy CEO, said he was thrilled that inspectors noted teachers are “subject specialists with relevant and substantial industry knowledge

and expertise”, who use this “very well to enrich learning”.

“As Ofsted witnessed, our teachers provide exceptional training, ensuring students develop the skills employers need while gaining invaluable personal and professional experiences,” Mark said.

“We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to excellence in education and training, and that we prepare learners and apprentices extremely well for their next stage of education or employment. We care passionately about our students and this was reflected to Ofsted by our students and stakeholders.”

Ofsted also recognised the vital role of governors, highlighting their “highly ambitious and passionate contribution to the colleges”.

Dr Patrick Newberry, Chair of Cornwall College Group Board of Governors, said the recognition “confirms the vital role Cornwall College Group plays in transforming lives and driving economic growth”.

“The Governors could not be prouder of what has been achieved and, on a personal note, I would like to thank my fellow Governors and the college’s staff for their commitment and dedication, which was noted by the Ofsted team. We look forward to ensuring the college continues to provide outstanding opportunities for learners, apprentices and the wider communities that we serve.”

Following a remarkable multi-million-pound renovation that has transformed the campus with state-of-the-art facilities, Cornwall College Camborne boast bespoke facilities such as the Green Construction Skills Academy, the new Cornwall Counselling Institute and cutting-edge film studios, that ensure students and the wider community benefit from world-class education and training opportunities in Camborne.

Luke Bazeley, Head of Cornwall College Camborne, emphasised the incredible transformation the college has undergone over the past decade, a journey that Ofsted has recognised, valued and rewarded.

“The evolution of Cornwall College Camborne over the last ten years has been nothing short of extraordinary. We have worked tirelessly to create an environment where students thrive, where businesses find skilled professionals and where the community feels supported and empowered. This Outstanding grading from Ofsted reflects the dedication of our staff and the ambition of our learners,” Luke explained.

Meanwhile, Cornwall College St Austell is at the heart of a multi-million-pound redevelopment project that will revolutionise education in Cornwall, provide cutting-edge facilities and ensure that students and the wider community benefit from world-class education and training opportunities.

David Atkinson-Beaumont, Head of Cornwall College St Austell, emphasised the significance of this transformation, he stated: “Achieving an Ofsted Outstanding grading reflects the incredible journey we have undertaken at Cornwall College St Austell. We have created an environment where students are inspired every day, and where education is more dynamic, engaging and aspirational than ever before. This achievement is not just a recognition of our success but a promise of an exciting future for all who walk through our doors.”

Andrew Phillips, Head of Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre, added: “This ‘Outstanding’ recognition from Ofsted reinforces the vital role Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre plays in transforming lives of local apprentices in Devon and Cornwall.”

You can access the full Ofsted report here.

Cornwall College Group consists of Cornwall College Camborne and St Austell, Duchy College Rosewarne and Stoke Climsland, Falmouth Marine School, Cornwall College University Centres at Eden Project and Newquay, Tournament Golf College at St Mellion Resort and Portugal, Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre and Bicton College in Devon.

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