College adult learning courses rated 'outstanding'

Blackpool and The Fylde College was rated as "outstanding" by inspectors in four areas

An "outstanding" report for a college's adult learning programmes has been described as a significant boost ahead of work to build a multiversity.

Construction of the £65m campus in Blackpool is set to start later this year, with it due to open in 2027.

The council-led development will be run by Blackpool and The Fylde College, which has just been rated as "good" by Ofsted, with four areas of its work highlighted as "outstanding" by inspectors.

The college's chief executive Alun Francis said it was "particularly pleasing that our adult learning programmes are rated as outstanding - it confirms the strong foundation for future success with our landmark multiversity project".

The campus - to be known as University Centre Blackpool - will be called a multiversity due to it having the capacity to teach various disciplines.

Inspectors gave Blackpool and The Fylde College, whose main campus is on Ashfield Road in Bispham, a glowing report.

The behaviour of students and apprentices was described as "exemplary".

The report said: "Tutors encourage them to emulate high, professional standards.

"Students in hospitality, uniformed public services and maritime wear their uniforms with dignity and pride."

An inspection team visited all areas of the college over four days in February to examine teaching, learning and the student experience.

Within the overall "good" rating were four "outstanding" categories: behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and adult learning programmes.

'High-quality teaching'

Mr Francis said: "This report is a tremendous recognition of the hard work and commitment by our staff, governors, students and their parents – and they should all feel very proud.

"Ofsted confirms that significant progress is being made across all aspects of our provision and we're delighted to have upgraded our ratings in five of the eight areas assessed."

He said the multiversity would offer "exciting new and flexible pathways to higher education and employment when it opens in 2027".

The report highlighted the dedication of staff in supporting students and apprentices who "thoroughly enjoy their education and training" with high-quality teaching that equips them with valuable skills for their futures.

For the first time, the college's contribution to meeting skills needs was assessed.

Through close partnerships with employers like the NHS and BAE Systems, the college has designed a curriculum that directly responds to employers' demands, it said.

Inspectors awarded the college the highest-possible rating for this work.