Ofsted success for college teacher training

South Essex College has been awarded a Good grade by Ofsted for its Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provision.

The college was visited after inspections resumed following a temporary pause due to Covid-19 lockdowns and was one of the first organisations to be inspected under the new initial teacher education framework.

Ofsted recognised that trainee teachers and lecturers on the programme had continued to make good progress in the development of new skills and knowledge during the pandemic.

The inspectors were in college for four days, they inspected the quality of teaching and learning, leadership and management and overall effectiveness of the ITE courses.

The report identified that trainees receive good support from staff and finish the course with a good understanding of current teaching theories including knowledge of special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).  Ofsted also noted that managers listened and respond to feedback to ensure that the curriculum is current and meets trainee needs fully. 

To read the full report, please visit https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/41/2580206

Joanne Styles, Head of English, Maths and Education at the College said: “We are delighted with the overall rating of Good.  To have achieved such strong feedback and commendation from Ofsted highlights that as a college we are producing high quality lecturers and practitioners, who will progress and make an impact in teaching within the sector. It is a fantastic result for the college.”

The college’s PgCE and Cert-Ed teacher training programmes are currently validated through The Open University.   

For those seeking a career change or progressing from another qualification, the college offers a route in to teaching that’s suitable for every individual. Applications are currently open to start in September. For more information, please visit www.southessex.ac.uk/teaching-and-training