A sixth form college in Leeds has received its third consecutive \u2018outstanding\u2019 grade from Ofsted.<\/p>\n
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College was awarded a grade one in all six areas for students\u2019 \u201cexceptional behaviour\u201d and \u201cambitious\u201d leaders, according to a report published\u00a0today.<\/p>\n
At the time of inspection, the college had 2,744 enrolled students, mostly on level 3 qualifications, predominantly A-levels and a smaller group on T Levels.<\/p>\n
The college first received a grade one rating from Ofsted in 2008, and then again in 2022.<\/p>\n
In its third \u2018outstanding\u2019 report, Ofsted inspectors highlighted how Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College made a \u201cstrong\u201d contribution to meeting skills needs.<\/p>\n
Inspectors found the college works with local employers, universities and community organisations to \u201cplan their provision precisely\u201d.<\/p>\n
To develop the local health workforce for example, the college linked up with the local NHS trust, universities, local college leaders and community groups to ensure that the work placement for its T Level health course gives students exposure to clinical settings.<\/p>\n
\u201cEarly in their placements, students have a range of experiences, including sterilising equipment and observing surgery,\u201d\u00a0Ofsted\u00a0observed.<\/p>\n
In college, leaders place a very \u201cstrong focus\u201d on the quality of education, the report said. They gave students work-related experience in simulated environments, such as mock courtrooms for criminology students.<\/p>\n
As a result, inspectors found \u201cstudents develop the skills, habits and virtues that they need to thrive in life and work, becoming well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of citizenship\u201d.<\/p>\n
The report also highlighted the sixth form college\u2019s \u201cexperienced and well-qualified\u201d teachers who \u201cblend the development of relevant skills seamlessly through their planning and approach\u201d.<\/p>\n
The watchdog said teachers frequently revisit past content and use a range of innovative methods to engage students and ensure they achieve \u201cvery well\u201d.<\/p>\n
For the college\u2019s 300 SEND students, inspectors said leaders designed an inclusive curriculum that \u201cvery effectively\u201d meets their needs.<\/p>\n
\u201cStudents progressively develop their knowledge and skills while increasing their independence and autonomy. As a result, they make excellent progress, achieve their qualifications and, where applicable, the targets in their education, health and care plans,\u201d the report said.<\/p>\n
The report also commended Notre Dame for fostering a culture of \u201chigh expectation and ambition\u201d that students thrive in.<\/p>\n
\u201cStaff create an ethos in which every student is supported to reach their academic and personal potential, regardless of their starting points. This ethos is firmly rooted in the college\u2019s Catholic values and a commitment that every student becomes the \u2018best they can be\u2019,\u201d the report said.<\/p>\n
Principal Justine Barlow said: \u201cWe are immensely proud to share this outcome. This success reflects the dedication of our staff, the hard work of our students, and the distinctive ethos of Notre Dame. Our commitment remains to help every student reach their full potential, guiding them to become \u2018the best that they can be\u2019 and preparing them for bright and successful futures.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n