Success – Ofsted Inspection of Initial Teacher Education Provision

We’re celebrating the successful outcome of our recent Ofsted Inspection of Initial Teacher Education (ITE), with inspectors recognising the high standards, professionalism and commitment demonstrated across the college’s teacher training provision.

The inspection was conducted under Ofsted’s new and highly rigorous inspection framework, designed to provide a detailed assessment of the quality and effectiveness of teacher education programmes. Throughout the inspection process, college staff, mentors and trainee teachers showcased their dedication to excellence and their commitment to developing future educators.

Having achieved ‘Strong’ across all areas of the framework, one of the report’s standout findings from inspectors stated that trainees “develop highly relevant knowledge and teaching skills that they apply effectively within their own teaching.”

The report also highlighted trainees’ strong understanding of behaviour management strategies and their ability to recognise and overcome barriers faced by learners, equipping them to deliver inclusive and effective teaching across the further education sector.

The positive outcome reflects the exceptional work taking place across the college community to train and support the next generation of teachers, both for Wigan & Leigh College and the wider further education sector.

Course Lead – Initial Teacher Education, Lee Royle said: “This week’s report was a proud moment for all of us. Achieving a Strong judgement across all areas under the new framework is something everyone involved should be incredibly proud of.”

The college’s Head of Teaching and Learning Academy, Karen Anderton welcomed the recognition, highlighting the collective efforts of staff, mentors and trainees in achieving this success.

She said: “This achievement is a testament to the hard work, expertise and dedication of everyone involved in our Initial Teacher Education provision. We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised and validated the quality of our programmes and the positive impact they have on developing skilled, confident and effective teachers for the future.”

The college’s Initial Teacher Education programmes play a vital role in supporting aspiring teachers and strengthening the further education workforce across the region. The successful inspection outcome reinforces Wigan & Leigh College’s reputation for delivering high-quality education and professional development opportunities.