Hartlepool Sixth Form College proud to be Outstanding

Hartlepool Sixth Form College, as part of leading college group Education Partnership North East (EPNE), has received an Outstanding rating across the board in its latest Ofsted inspection.

The inspection is an outcome of eight years of ambitious transformation and investment, during which time Hartlepool Sixth Form College has been rated as the top performing sixth form in the North East for student achievement by the Department for Education* two years in a row.

A team of inspectors met with students, staff, college leaders, employers, and community partners during a rigorous week-long visit where they assessed the performance and quality of provision at the college’s campus on Blakelock Road, which received the highest possible rating across every area.

The college was also found to be outstanding in its delivery of high needs support, the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, behaviour and attitudes and was further assessed as ‘strong’; the highest rating available, for contribution to skills.

Hartlepool Sixth Form College was praised on the ambition that students displayed for their future, that underpins the commitment of the college to providing support and high-quality teaching.

As a leading academic and technical further education provider the college’s work extends beyond the delivery of qualifications and skills, to the local community and socio-economic generation.

Its unwavering focus on social impact and student and staff community engagement was also identified as a key strength, with the college building partnerships among local authorities, organisations, businesses, universities, and schools, providing equal opportunity for all and becoming a pillar within the communities it serves.

In addition to significant capital investment in facilities and resources, the college has built a highly nurturing environment, shown outstanding quality of teaching, delivered a wealth of opportunities, and provided a commitment to student success. This approach has improved attendance, retention, achievement and progression to employment, further study, and student places at some of the country’s top universities.

Ellen Thinnesen, Chief Executive of EPNE, said: “We were delighted to welcome the inspectors from Ofsted and demonstrate the transformational journey we have been on. The Outstanding rating is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our exceptional and talented staff and students and the support of our partners, who share our passion and relentless determination to transform lives.”

Deputy Chief Executive Toni Rhodes, who was the group’s Ofsted representative, added: “The Outstanding rating recognises our resolute commitment to excellence, and demonstrates the high standard of teaching, support, and opportunities available to our students.”

James Stuart, Chair of Governors, added: “This is a fantastic recognition for the combined effort and dedication of everyone across the college group to ensure we are achieving our ambitious vision. Our Governors are extremely proud of the journey EPNE has been on and the role they have played to position the group as a leading provider of further and higher education now and into the future.”