A Southampton college is making “significant progress” after being rated as “required improvements” by Ofsted three times.
Southampton City College has made significant progress since the college’s last inspection a year ago which highlighted students' lack of progress.
It comes as proposals for the college to merge with Eastleigh College and Fareham College have gone to public consultation.
The plans come after City College faced intervention over its financial instability.
It has required nearly £8m in emergency Education and Skills Funding Agency cash.
The new Ofsted report says leaders and managers have worked “tirelessly” since the last inspection in February to improve the progress that apprentices have made.
READ MORE: Ofsted rates Southampton college as ‘requires improvement’ for third time
Inspectors also found leaders have successfully identified a skills gap with new teachers and college bosses are now providing induction programmes.
Teachers in English and maths functional skills provide swift detailed feedback, and this is highly valued by students.
Learners have one-to-one meetings with their teachers to review their achievements and discuss progress.
As a result, students make “rapid progress” and speak positively about their learning.
READ MORE: Plans to merge colleges takes step forward in bid to create 'vibrant' group
Commenting on the latest report, principal and CEO of City College Southampton, Martin Sim said: “We are pleased that the recent Ofsted monitoring visit has acknowledged the College's progress in resolving the areas of improvement identified during the inspection conducted in February 2022.
“Leaders and managers at the college have taken effective action to ensure they review and improve the quality of education across all provision types.”
The principal said managers and staff have worked hard to restructure and enhance approaches to marking and feedback, as well as careers guidance, which has brought positive changes.
He added: “The report confirms that City College Southampton is moving in the right direction and that we are committed to improving the quality of education for all learners.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to our hard-working staff, governors, and learners for their continued dedication and support.”
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