Ofsted chief visits Cornish college for insights into positive turnaround

The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) has been honoured with a visit by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector (HMCI) of Ofsted, Amanda Spielman, following its successful Ofsted inspection in February.

Mrs Spielman met with the leadership team, students and staff of TCCG at Cornwall College St Austell, to see first-hand the incredible transformation that gained national attention and saw the College gain a Good rating in every aspect of its Ofsted report.

Since the previous inspection, Ofsted noted that “senior leaders and governors have transformed the culture at the college. Governors and leaders have high expectations for learners. Leaders are passionate about the power of education to change lives and benefit the wider community”.

Amanda Spielman, Ofsted’s Chief Inspector said: “I enjoyed the opportunity to talk to staff and learners at the college. It was good to hear first-hand about the improvements that have been made and leaders’ determination to keep that momentum going.”

Principal and chief executive of TCCG, John Evans, said the visit was “testament to the hard work of staff and students to create a positive environment for people to get the qualifications and life skills they need to embark on successful careers”.

“We are delighted that Amanda has taken the time to visit us and her keen interest in what we have been doing is such a proud moment for us all,” he continued.

“Our learners and the communities we serve should also be proud of the colleges that are on the doorstep as Ofsted noted that we are passionate about the power of education to change lives and benefit the wider community.

“This is critical in our work as we aim for social justice and equity in the access to education across Cornwall and Devon.”

Mr. Evans added that he’d “like to thank all the parents, the schools, the businesses and everyone we work with for supporting us in this journey, as this result is as much theirs as it is ours”.

“And I would urge anyone thinking of their next steps in education, training or their careers to get in touch and sign up to an Open Event, as they can be confident they will have a fantastic experience and achieve their career ambitions with The Cornwall College Group.”

TCCG comprises campuses across Cornwall and Devon, providing a wide range of vocational, further, and higher education courses, and apprenticeships, from pre-entry to Level 7 and provision for learners with high needs.

The Cornwall College Group incorporates Cornwall College, Duchy College, Falmouth Marine School, Bicton College and CCB Training and is one of the largest FE and HE providers in the South West.