In terms of College management, this paragraph from our latest Ofsted inspection (February 2008) says it all:

"How well is the College led and managed?"

Leadership and management are good (grade 2). Governors, the Principal and senior management team have set a clear vision and strategic direction that is well articulated and shared by staff. Leadership is outstanding. A large proportion of college income is derived from full cost recovery courses and re-invested to the benefit of all its learners. The college knows its community well and provides an outstanding service particularly in encouraging and stimulating aspiration within areas of high deprivation. Governance is particularly good. Governors have a wide range of skills and an excellent range of contacts in the community, local business and higher education and carefully monitor key aspects of college performance

The college’s approach to equality of opportunity is outstanding. Effective staff development in equality and diversity ensures that staff have a thorough and intimate knowledge of the locality, its diverse community and the issues that it faces. Blackpool has the third largest lesbian, gay and bisexual community in the country. The college works effectively with this community to raise awareness of sexuality, challenge homophobia and raise the expectations and aspirations of community members. Staff at all levels from governors to receptionists are trained by a specialist external provider and the college now sends its own trained staff to help other colleges.

The college works well to serve the large transient population in the area, engaging in dialogue with its members, appreciating their position and working with them to further their education. Specialist programmes of study have been developed for looked after children or learners categorised as not in education, employment or training (NEET). The college works effectively with external partners in reducing numbers of young learners in this category. A number of successful research projects have successfully improved the results of some groups of learners, such as under achieving young males at level 1. The college has worked successfully to help the families of its overseas learners become part of the local community. The outstanding approach to equality and diversity is present in the classroom with some teachers engaging entry level learners in high level discussions on equality and diversity.

Excellent accommodation and resources are used effectively and efficiently to support learning. The college complies with legislation relating to race, disability and child protection. Value for money is outstanding.