Delight as Plumpton College retains '˜outstanding' Ofsted rating

Plumpton College is celebrating after a recent Ofsted visit.
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The agricultural college in Ditchling Road, Plumpton, has retained its ‘outstanding’ rating following an inspection from education bosses on September 18-20.

Principal Jeremy Kerswell said: “I am extremely proud of our student body, and especially our staff who exceed their job roles on a daily basis to support students to be the best they can be.

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“The inspection framework has developed since our last residential inspection, I am pleased to see recognition in the report of the importance we place in safeguarding our students.

Students at Plumpton College celebrating following a recent Ofsted visitStudents at Plumpton College celebrating following a recent Ofsted visit
Students at Plumpton College celebrating following a recent Ofsted visit

“This includes the safer recruitment of staff and regular training and updates which ensures we provide an outstanding level of support to all of our students across the college.

“I’m also delighted that the inspectors widely acknowledged the culture of positivity and high expectations at the college, and the impact that has in creating an environment that enriches and enhances our student’s academic progress as well as their personal and social development.”

The inspection assessed the residential provision at the college, taking into account the welfare of students, how they are supported and kept safe, and their wider experience and progress across all aspects of their time at college.

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In the report, social care inspector Liz Driver, writes: “Students thrive, learning and living in a culture where success is highly supported and celebrated.

“Being a residential student at the college improves their attendance, achievement and attainment. The staff show commitment and passion in helping and supporting students.

“The professional practices observed during this inspection consistently exceeded the standard of good.”

Plumpton College is located at the foot of the South Downs. It welcomes more than 3,500 students per year across four campuses in the south east. This year, it has enrolled more students than ever before, a spokesman said.

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The college offers courses in land based education with a wide range of levels of academic learning span from Entry to Level 3 and then into higher education with foundation degrees, honours degrees and masters courses for extended academic learning.