Duchy College celebrates historic Ofsted ‘Outstanding’

In a huge boost for learners, businesses and communities in Cornwall and Devon, Duchy College, part of the Cornwall College Group (CCG), is officially ‘Outstanding’.

Following a week-long inspection by Ofsted, a glowing report praised CCG on its commitment to “exceptional learning opportunities”, “highly effective partnerships to meet the local training needs” and learners who are “highly motivated to learn in aspirational environments”.

Duchy College, which has campuses at Stoke Climsland near Callington and Rosewarne, near Camborne, is renowned for its rich history of high quality rural education, including agriculture, horticulture, military and protective services, equine, animal care and sport. 

Principal and CEO, Rob Bosworth, expressed immense pride in the achievement.

“This is an historic moment for Cornwall College Group, and is an outcome of the relentless dedication of our staff, the ambition of our learners and the invaluable support of our partners,” he said.

“We are a group consisting of place-based, local colleges, and this Ofsted report belongs to everyone in Cornwall and Devon, not just the college. It highlights how our colleges are at the very heart of the communities we serve, and reflects how hard we work in partnership to deliver Outstanding outcomes. Businesses and local stakeholders can be confident they will achieve their goals and ambitions with us, as we transform lives and help drive economic growth in Cornwall and Devon.”

Inspectors praised the group of colleges, noting the “excellent learning spaces that staff have created contribute to learners and apprentices being highly motivated”, while providing “an inclusive, welcoming and caring environment”.

“Leaders successfully and effectively use partnerships to meet training needs in Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and Devon,” the report revealed.

“They collaborate with stakeholders like Cornwall Council and education partners, aligning the curriculum with local skills demands.”

The report also commended the college’s ability to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive, making a tangible impact on the region’s workforce and economy.

Mark Wardle, Deputy CEO, said he was thrilled that inspectors noted teachers are “subject specialists with relevant and substantial industry knowledge

and expertise”, who use this “very well to enrich learning”.

“As Ofsted witnessed, our teachers provide exceptional training, ensuring students develop the skills employers need while gaining invaluable personal and professional experiences,” Mark said.

“We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to excellence in education and training, and that we prepare learners and apprentices extremely well for their next stage of education or employment. We care passionately about our students and this was reflected to Ofsted by our students and stakeholders.”

Ofsted also recognised the vital role of governors, highlighting their “highly ambitious and passionate contribution to the colleges”.

Dr Patrick Newberry, Chair of Cornwall College Group Board of Governors, said the recognition “confirms the vital role Cornwall College Group plays in transforming lives and driving economic growth”.

“The Governors could not be prouder of what has been achieved and, on a personal note, I would like to thank my fellow Governors and the college’s staff for their commitment and dedication, which was noted by the Ofsted team. We look forward to ensuring the college continues to provide outstanding opportunities for learners, apprentices and the wider communities that we serve.”

Venetia Summers, Head of Duchy College Stoke Climsland, reflected on the remarkable progress the college has made in recent years, which Ofsted highlighted in its report.

“This Outstanding result highlights the incredible journey we have been on as a college,” she said. “Just a few years ago, we set out to transform the learner experience, working tirelessly to raise standards, build strong industry partnerships and create an environment where everyone can thrive.”

Venetia added: “To have Ofsted recognise this turnaround is immensely rewarding. It reflects the dedication of our staff, the ambition of our learners and the unwavering support of our local community. We are incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and even more excited for the future.”

Luke Bazeley, Head of Duchy College Rosewarne, emphasised the incredible transformation the college has undergone over the past decade, a journey that Ofsted has recognised, valued and rewarded.

“The evolution of Duchy College Rosewarne over the last ten years has been nothing short of extraordinary. We have worked tirelessly to create an environment where students thrive, where businesses find skilled professionals and where the community feels supported and empowered. This Outstanding grading from Ofsted reflects the dedication of our staff and the ambition of our learners,” Luke explained.

You can access the full Ofsted report here.

Cornwall College Group consists of Cornwall College Camborne and St Austell, Duchy College Rosewarne and Stoke Climsland, Falmouth Marine School, Cornwall College University Centres at Eden Project and Newquay, Tournament Golf College at St Mellion Resort and Portugal, Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre and Bicton College in Devon.

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