HALESOWEN College is celebrating after being rated 'good’ in its latest Ofsted inspection.

Inspectors visited the Whittingham Road college, which has more than 6,000 learners, at the end of September.

A report published on November 17 gives the college an overall good rating and good ratings in all categories, apart from apprenticeships - which received a 'requires improvement' rating.

Inspectors said learners feel valued, included and safe, have a positive attitude to their studies and are proud to study at Halesowen.

Halesowen News: Staff and students celebrating the good rating Staff and students celebrating the good rating (Image: Halesowen College)

Jacquie Carman, Principal and CEO of Halesowen College, said: “We are delighted to have received this grading from Ofsted which recognises our supportive and ambitious ethos and reflects the achievements of our learners alongside the commitment and talent of our staff.

“Despite this excellent result we are not complacent and had already identified improvements that will further raise our quality of education and strive towards our vision – to be exceptional through the delivery of first class skills and education for all.”

The report also states students gain confidence and develop the skills they need for work and are prepared for life after college.

It praises the college for working well with key stakeholders and including employers when designing the curriculum so it knows what skills they are looking for.

It adds that a high proportion of learners move on to higher education, employment and apprenticeships, teachers are experienced in their subjects and there are clear expectations set for learners to complete work experience or a work-related activity.

The report also highlights that leaders, managers and staff have created a welcoming and inclusive environment which helps students to thrive.

But it states that there were 95 apprentices at the time of the inspection and that "the curriculum is less well planned and sequenced for apprentices."

Jo Chilton, Chair of Governors at Halesowen College, said: “The Ofsted grading of good evidences the consistent quality of education and enrichment learners at Halesowen College receive and establishes a solid foundation on which to move forward. "The College’s aspiration is to achieve outstanding in future assessments.”

The college has three sites - its main site is on Whittingham Road - its Coombs Wood site hosts apprenticeship provision, and some digital and media provision.

The Shenstone House site hosts hair and beauty, health and social care and some adult provision, such as access to nursing and some level 2 counselling provision.

There are 4,953 learners on education programmes for young people on a range of academic and vocational courses, including A levels, T levels and BTEC National Diplomas and there are around 1,300 adult learners studying full- and part-time courses from entry level to level 5.

Around a third of these learners were on access to higher education courses in nursing, midwifery, science, health professionals, social science, animal management, business and law.

It is the second consecutive time the college has been rated good. It was last rated good in 2017.