Staff and students at Kirklees College in Huddersfield are celebrating a ‘Good’ rating following their Ofsted inspection in early March.

It was the college’s first full inspection since 2012 and the college was awarded a ‘Good’ grade in all areas by Ofsted inspectors including apprenticeships, safeguarding and adult education.

The report, published last week, highlighted the college’s ethos focusing on kindness, unity and excellence.

As the only general education provider in the area, the college works effectively with a range of stakeholders to ensure students and apprentices develop the skills and behaviours to thrive in the world of work. The curriculum is adapted in response to the demands of industry at a local or national level.

Students and apprentices have clear career goals and most are prepared well for their next steps, the inspectors found.

The report says: “Leaders have devised a clear and ambitious strategy that puts the guiding values of kindness, unity and excellence at the forefront. The strategy is being implemented on sound foundations that have been established well over several years.

“Leaders focus on the needs, well-being and future prospects of their students and apprentices, and a sense of passion for students and apprentices permeates the college.”

The report also comments on how Kirklees College champions diversity both within the college and the wider community.

The report adds: “Leaders, managers and tutors promote a culture where individual difference is celebrated, and diversity is understood as a valuable component to a harmonious society.

“Apprentices in accountancy explore racial stereotypes and identify ways to challenge these confidently in the workplace. Students in beauty therapy work with community organisations to promote the importance of identity. Food and drink maintenance engineer apprentices learn about world affairs such as the conflict in Ukraine and its impact on the population.

“Students and apprentices collaborate well together, are considerate of the different views of others and value the diverse
community in which they learn.”

The main suggestion for improvement from inspectors centred on boosting attendance and punctuality.

College principal Palvinder Singh said: “I am so proud of the whole Kirklees College community. Our students, staff and stakeholders demonstrated that Kirklees College is an excellent education provider, for people of all ages and backgrounds.

“Our values of kindness, unity and excellence are at the forefront of our college in creating opportunities and changing lives.

“Our ‘Good’ rating demonstrates that we are at the heart of shaping a better future for all in our community and I would like to thank all our staff for their ongoing dedication and commitment to our students.”

The report can be viewed HERE.