Wednesday, July 10, 2013

News: Rotherham College gets good results

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Rotherham College of Arts and Technology (RCAT) has been given a rating of "Good" by Ofsted inspectors, and two of its departments, Construction and Visual and Performing Arts, earned the top rating of "Outstanding."

The Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted) is the official body for inspecting schools, colleges and learning and skills providers in England.

RCAT's inspection, which took place in May, confirms a major turning point in the history of the college, which had not previously had a "good" rating in the 21 years since it split from local authority control in 1992.

Gill Alton, who arrived as Principal and Chief Executive in 2010, said: "This brilliant outcome is not just great for the college, but a further massive boost for education in Rotherham and efforts to take the town forward.

"In awarding these grades, Ofsted are confirming that not only are Rotherham students performing above the national average, but that our tutors and staff are delivering excellent learning and support that helps our students move on in their careers, into jobs or onto higher education courses such as degrees."

Ofsted also recognized the impact of £15m of investment which the College has made, resulting in "improved facilities and learning resources to benefit students" and complemented the College on the environment on its campuses in Rotherham and Dinnington, saying "staff and students show high levels of respect for each other."

In giving the Construction Department the outstanding grade, inspectors said students "develop very high levels of skills" and praised "outstanding links with employers". Ofsted also said that departmental resources are "excellent" and that support for students is "outstanding."

Ofsted praised the progress made by students in the Visual and Performing Arts department into higher education. Inspectors highlighted excellent practice such as "bold and challenging" assignments, inspiring field trips, performances by students at the National Theatre, links with the creative industries and "real projects."

Gill Alton added: "We want to give Rotherham's people and employers access to an outstanding college, improving the opportunities and economic prospects for all.

"We're also investing more with a major development of our Engineering facilities over the summer and increased space for Construction trades. Hospitality and food service are also a major part of the local economy and this autumn we'll be opening our brand new training restaurant."

RCAT website

Images: RCAT

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