Grading reflects journey of improvement at specialist FE college
Staff and students at Livability Nash College are celebrating after receiving a ‘Good’ Ofsted grading.
The judgement follows a sustained programme of development at the further education college, which supports students aged 19-25 with profound to moderate learning difficulties and complex needs.
Previous inspections found the college required improvement. An immediate plan was implemented to strengthen the education provision.
Swift action to improve the governance and oversight of the college, placing it on a sound footing, was acknowledged by the inspection team.
Inspectors found that students at the college, based in Croydon Road, Hayes, benefitted from a good education, with the curriculum content tailored to meet individual needs and aspirations.
They noted that students make sustained progress, with the college providing a safe and supportive environment where staff know learners very well.
And the inspectors stated that the college had robust plans in place to develop external work placements for students to learn key skills in a workplace environment. This includes the college’s social enterprise project, the Nash Challenge Club, which supports students and alumni to gain practical experience through a range of volunteering activities.
The report highlighted:
- Learners benefit from a good education taught by qualified and nurturing staff.
- Tutors skilfully plan and teach the curriculum content, taking into account learners’ EHC plan outcomes.
- Tutors design the curriculum to ensure the successful transition of learners to the community, supported living or employment once they complete college.
- Leaders have high expectations and are ambitious for learners.
- Members of the pastoral team are highly trained and skilled in providing support when learners are unable to manage their own behaviour independently.
Safeguarding measures at the college were also deemed effective, with inspectors highlighting that timely and appropriate action is taken in response to any concerns.
Adele Audin, Livability’s Director for Education and College Principal, said:
We are justifiably proud of the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection, which is testament to the hard work, professionalism and dedication of the staff team. Securing a good grading is a huge achievement, especially given the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. We will continue to build on these foundations, supporting students to develop the skills to access future work and volunteering opportunities.
The Ofsted inspection took place between 22-24 March 2023, with the college being graded good in all areas. Click here to read the report.
Work with us
We are keen to hear from businesses and organisations in South London who would be interested in providing work placements to students as part of a supported employment programme.
Students would be supported by an experienced member of staff during a placement, enabling them to develop key skills in a work environment.
To find out more, or for an informal conversation, contact Deputy Head Nick Mallett on NMallett@nash.livability.org.uk or call 020 8315 4800