Shropshire college celebrates third consecutive outstanding Ofsted report

The specialist Derwen College, at Gobowen, near Oswestry, was the first independent college for learners with learning difficulties and disabilities to be judged outstanding in 2005.

Chief executive Ruth Thomas said the latest news was unbelievably wonderful.

She said: "Being outstanding three times consecutively is awesome. It's all about the students and our students are the best. It's also about making a difference.

Read the full Ofsted report on Derwen College here

"This is such an accolade for the college, a wonderful acknowledgement of the dedicated staff we have. On a personal level I am absolutely overwhelmed. I believe our commitment to influence and drive change nationally helps us continue to provide the very best in education for our amazing learners."

The college's main campus is in Gobowen near Oswestry and attracts students from across the county and further afield. Work is focussed to give students the skills they need for employment and the experiences to help them live as independently as possible in the future. The college offers both day and residential placements and has three satellite sites at Higher Penley, near Wrexham, and at Walford and Craven Arms in north and south Shropshire.

Mrs Thomas said that Ofsted gave the outstanding grading across the board for the following areas; effectiveness of leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning and assessment, personal development, behaviour and welfare, outcomes for learners and overall effectiveness.

Head of education and training Meryl Green said: "We are immensely proud of this result. The outcome of the inspection highlights the unique work that goes on here at Derwen College. Inspectors were clearly impressed by the culture we have developed so that all staff have very high expectations of students and, as a result, students are supported and challenged to achieve their very best – and they do.

"Our results with qualifications, work outcomes and competitions are impressive and development of employability skills is key. We work with partners, including national chain organisations, to ensure we provide the very best in vocational training and work experience an innovative approach was praised by the inspection team.

"High quality education and training is underpinned by the highest standards of care and support and an extensive independence, health and well-being programme tailored for every learner.

"This success would not be possible without our fantastic staff team who are well trained, highly skilled and truly innovative. Staff go above and beyond to ensure the best possible chances of success for each individual."