Ofsted Inspection: Stoke on Trent College at the heart of improving education in the city
Stoke on Trent College is celebrating its latest Ofsted inspection report, recognising its commitment to learners, employers and the communities it serves.
Carried out under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, the report recognises that the college meets the Expected Standard across the majority of its inspected areas, with Adult Learning achieving a Strong standard.
At the heart of the college is a belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and achieve, whatever their age, background or starting point.
For young people, the college is a place to discover their strengths, build confidence and take their first steps towards an exciting future. Inspectors recognised that “learners make sustained progress relative to their starting points, most achieve their qualifications and move on to positive destinations”. They also praised teachers for using “real industry examples that bring learning to life”. Learners also benefit from planned careers guidance, employer masterclasses and support with progression into university, degree apprenticeships and employment.
The college’s inclusive culture ensures learners receive the support they need to succeed. Staff work closely with learners, families and external organisations to remove barriers to learning, including helping individuals access accommodation and wider support. Inspectors highlighted that “the most vulnerable learners attend at a comparable rate to their peers”, recognising the college’s coordinated approach to supporting attendance and engagement.
Strong employer partnerships ensure learners develop the skills and experience needed by local industries. The Ofsted report recognised the college’s work with organisations including British Telecom, ceramic materials specialists and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors. These partnerships form part of a much wider network of more than 550 employers and organisations, including Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Marriott Hotels, the NHS and DB Cargo, creating valuable opportunities and preparing learners for the world of work. Inspectors recognised that “learners and apprentices learn effectively from stakeholders’ knowledge and expertise”, particularly in sectors such as green construction, ceramics and telecommunications engineering.
Adult learning was a particular highlight of the inspection, achieving a Strong standard. For many adults, returning to education takes courage. Whether developing their English, changing career direction or taking their first steps back into learning, the college provides opportunities to build confidence and open up new possibilities. Inspectors recognised that “a substantial proportion of learners returning to education grow noticeably in confidence and self-esteem”. The report also praised the college’s ambitious adult curriculum, with “well-thought-out pathways that reflect local adults’ needs”. GCSE English and maths achievement at grade 4 or above is also higher than the national rate.
Behind these experiences are the college’s staff, whose dedication and commitment make such a difference every day. Inspectors recognised that “learners and teachers treat each other with respect” and that learners are “motivated and focus on their studies”.
Looking ahead, the college’s new 2026–29 strategy sets out an ambitious vision to be “at the heart of improving education in the city”, making a positive contribution to the quality of life of young people and adults across the area.
Principal and CEO of Stoke on Trent College, Hassan Rizvi, said: “We are really pleased that the Ofsted report recognises the work taking place across our college. I see every day how our staff go above and beyond because they genuinely care about our learners and want to make a difference. Everyone here understands the importance of what we do and the responsibility we have to get it right.
“Our students are the beating heart of our city. They will build our homes, work in our hospitals, keep our communities safe and shape our future. We are not simply providing qualifications; we are helping people build brighter futures and giving our city the skills it needs to thrive.
“We are proud of this recognition, but we are not standing still. We have big ambitions, further improvements to make and exciting plans ahead. It is a brilliant time to be part of our college as we continue to be at the heart of improving education in the city and ensuring our learners are Skills Ready, Future Ready.”
