Hartpury College has been rated 'Outstanding' in all areas in its latest Ofsted report and has received the highest possible grade for helping to meet skills needs.
Continuing its track record of performing at the very top level, the college has been rated 'Outstanding' since May 2018, with the latest inspection having taken place between Tuesday 27 February until Friday 1 March 2024.
Achieving the top grade possible in the current Ofsted regulation system, inspectors considered the quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development; leadership and management; education programmes for young people; adult learning programmes; apprenticeships; and provision for students with high needs — and concluded that the college makes a 'strong contribution' to meeting skills needs, too.
Despite recent adjustments introduced in a new framework, making an 'Outstanding' rating more of a challenge to achieve, Hartpury says that 'retaining this highest grade reflects the institution's ongoing commitment to uphold the highest standard of education and student support.'
The college credits its 'strong contribution' grade to its leaders working closely with a range of stakeholders, employers and community groups, including the Hollie Gazzard Trust, Team GB Sports and Three Counties Vets.
As well as praising staff for their exceptional work with the employer representitive body, Business West and the Federation of Small Businesses, Hartpury was commended for its overall emphasis on preparing students for their careers or further study.
Inspectors observed a welcoming, respectful and inclusive culture and noted the exemplary behaviour of students; high attendance rates; and strong commitment to their studies.
The report also praised the recreational sports teams that increase participation for every student, alongside the highly-acclaimed sports academies.
Professor Andy Collop, principal of Hartpury College, said: 'Retaining our 'Outstanding' rating is testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, whose passion for what they do creates a dynamic learning environment for our students.
'I’m delighted that the inspection found evidence of our high standards of education and support and reached such positive conclusions about the student experience. We’ll continue to work hard in the months and years to come to maintain these high standards in all areas.'
Deputy principal of Hartpury College, Claire Whitworth, added: 'Not only did we achieve ‘Outstanding’ in all areas, but we were also appraised as making a ‘strong contribution’ to meeting skills needs.
'This is such an important aspect of what we do and really does reflect how well our offer aligns with skills requirements related to current and future job roles in support of the local, regional and national economy.'
'Finally, a phrase that I heard mentioned a few times over the inspection period was that ‘the air at Hartpury crackles with positivity’. This, to me, really does sum up Team Hartpury.'
