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HCC is a GOOD college: Ofsted report published
Posted 27th June 2010
HCC is a ‘Good college’ says Ofsted
Strengths and praise dominate Hackney Community College’s inspection report. It also notes specific improvements since the college’s last inspection, in 2006.
When they visited in May 2010, inspectors noted: “This is a good college, which has made significant progress since the previous inspection.” The report goes on to talk about how students enjoy learning, are proud of their achievements and make a considerable contribution to the community. It also states that “significant investment has been made in resources – particularly in IT” and that the standard of accommodation and facilities across the Shoreditch campus, in Falkirk Street, is high.
Ofsted also looks at how colleges work with employers. Employers praised the way that the HCC supports their staff training, and no areas for improvement were identified in this respect. The report also found that employers participate well in learners’ projects and activities, which prepare them for work.
Staff were praised in the inspection: “Teachers are well-qualified and learners speak well of their enthusiastic and supportive teachers”. It was also found that care, guidance and support of learners are good across the college experience. Also, that governors, managers and staff are strongly focused on raising aspirations, maximising learners’ potential and meeting the needs of the local community.
Inspectors looked at is how the college works with partners to support the learner experience. In this aspect, HCC got the top score – outstanding: “The college’s extensive partnerships with employers other organisations are outstanding in helping to improve the quality of learners’ courses. Links with local organisations to reduce the number of workless are particularly effective.”
Ian Ashman, principal of the college, has been in post since 2007 and has been supporting his staff to get this recognition since he joined: “We have been on a journey to ‘Good in 2010’ since I was appointed. We have very clear expectations of our staff and in turn they expect high standards of our students. I am so proud that we have achieved this. It’s been a challenging but thoroughly rewarding few years and our hard work shows in every aspect of this report. My thanks go to all our staff and students – and our partners – in getting to this point. Now we’re working towards Outstanding by the time of the next inspection!”
Ofsted gave some suggestions for improvement, including that HCC should further improve students’ pass rates.
See Ofsted’s summary report here
Photo: Principal Ian Ashman and students celebrate with the 2010 Ofsted report. Oliviaharrisphotos.com
