Devon: Exeter College rated ‘outstanding’ again

Exeter College has been rated 'outstanding' again by Ofsted, retaining its status as one of the best colleges in the country.

Eight years since its last inspection, a 21-strong team of inspectors visited the college at the end of 2022 to review several areas, including the quality of education, personal development and adult learning.

Seven of the eight categories achieved outstanding, while Exeter also scored the top assessment of 'strong' for meeting the skills needs of the area – the first college in the country to achieve top grades in both elements of Ofsted's new enhanced inspections. 

Principal John Laramy described it as an "exceptional sector-leading outcome" and thanked the college's "amazing learners, apprentices, staff and governors."

In its glowing report, Ofsted says students "learn substantial new knowledge, skills and behaviours quickly" and can "recall their prior learning exceptionally well," praising the "high quality of teaching they receive from their teachers and trainers."

It adds: "Learners and apprentices treat each other and the college staff with high levels of respect. Teachers and other staff are excellent role models; they are professional, friendly, very supportive and work tirelessly to meet the needs of their learners and apprentices."

Ofsted also found that students learn in "calm and highly aspirational learning environments … because teachers have very high expectations of them and plan teaching sessions extremely well.

"As a result, learners and apprentices develop high levels of motivation and attend learning sessions frequently. Those who have far to travel are well supported so that they are punctual at college."

The report goes on to say that students "significantly develop their confidence and resilience over time because they do not fear making mistakes or asking staff for help," while they "take advantage of the well-planned and numerous opportunities for encounters with the world of work.

Additionally, inspectors praised the level of careers guidance at the college and concluded that "learners feel safe on college campuses … because college leaders and staff have created a positive environment and a culture where bullying and harassment are never tolerated.

"Learners and apprentices demonstrate highly respectful attitudes towards all aspects of college life. Learners feel very comfortable talking to teachers or other staff about their concerns or worries."

Reacting to the report, Mr Laramy said: "At a time when the national press is talking about Ofsted raising the bar for their top grade the team at Exeter College has demonstrated that we have sustained outstanding, even in the new rigorous enhanced framework.

"I would like to wholeheartedly thank everyone who contributed to this exceptional sector-leading outcome, especially our amazing learners, apprentices, staff and governors. Ofsted has recognised what I see from our students, apprentices and staff every single day."

Exeter's Labour MP Ben Bradshaw tweeted: "Another fantastic achievement by Exeter College, cementing the transformation in state education in Exeter since 1997, helped driven by our community-run Ted Wragg Trust and its partners."