'Lots more to come' at TCAT after Ofsted success

Bosses at TCAT promised "lots more to come" after across-the-board improvements saw its rating improve during a visit by inspectors earlier this month.

It comes just months before the college officially merges with New College Telford later this year.

Inspectors said: “Students and apprentices develop good levels of practical, personal and social skills that prepare them well for the world of work.

“Students are conscientious and hard-working, and are keen to learn. Teachers are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their subjects, and students value the support and encouragement that they receive.”

Read the full Oftsed report on TCAT here

TCAT’s principal Graham Guest said: "We are proud that Ofsted have highlighted the skills our students are developing and the employability opportunities we are providing them with our strong links with national and local employers.

“Our improvements will see a significant number of students progress onto higher education, apprenticeships or employment this academic year

“Ofsted has recognised the increasing pace of our improvement and I have every confidence that we can continue to build on this positive step for the college and there is a lot more to come.

“As we prepare to officially merge with our colleagues from New College Telford later this year, we are building up real momentum as we look to support the growth of the region.”

Paul Hinkins, chair of TCAT corporation and shadow board, added: “Our Ofsted report recognises the sheer hard work that all staff, senior leadership, executive team and governors have put in and continue to be focussed on our student outcomes.

“We also work closely with the local authority and the Marches LEP who are both fully supportive of this work.

“We want to be the college for everyone - whether you’re a school leaver looking to go to university or start a career, an adult developing their skills, or a business wanting to grow and the inspection recognises this.”

The Ofsted report identifies strong links which TCAT has developed with the local business community.

“Managers often use their knowledge of local employers to good effect when planning courses, such as those to help prepare adults for work with local firms,” it says.

And in the case of apprenticeships, it adds: “Employers are now more actively involved in the planning and review of their employees’ performance within the workplace.”

“As a result of the actions taken by leaders and managers, an increasing proportion of students are now making good progress towards successfully completing their GCSE and functional skills qualifications in both English and mathematics.

“Employers and assessors use their extensive industrial experience to support apprentices’ development of good practical skills. As a result, they quickly develop and acquire a broad range of vocational skills.”