Ofsted this week have removed West Somerset College from Special Measures following a two-day inspection.

The removal of Special Measures was immediately followed by a full section 5 inspection and the outcome of this inspection will be published in the next 3 – 4 weeks once a quality assurance process has been completed.

Inspectors, however, confirmed that that huge progress had been made by the College since it was placed into Special Measures back in 2014. They were very complimentary about the progress that has been made with teaching, learning and the outcomes that students are now gaining both at GCSE level and across the 6th form.

They recognised how classroom practice has improved significantly, that student conduct, both in lessons and in social time is markedly better than in 2014 and the quality of leadership across all levels of the College is now very strong and has been instrumental in securing these improvements.

Also noted was the strength and quality of the new Local Governing Body and the assistance and direction provided by the Bridgwater College Trust in accelerating improvements since conversion back in February this year.

Peter Elliott, Executive Head Teacher said,

“We are delighted with this news, and the verbal feedback we have received confirms we are moving quickly in the right direction. The strong and robust support of the Bridgwater College Trust has obviously been influential, but I would like to congratulate the staff team for their efforts in achieving this outcome.  The College can pride itself on the great pupils who study here and the fantastic learning environments.”

Mike Robbins, Chair of Bridgwater College Trust said,

“We are obviously very pleased with this outcome and I would like to congratulate the staff, students and governing body for all their hard work in helping the College to reach this point.  We await the publication of the Ofsted report and the new grading with interest and look forward to continuing our journey towards becoming an outstanding College for the young people in our community. Thanks are also due to parents and carers for their ongoing support for the College over the past year through what has been a very challenging period of transition.”