West Thames College Celebrating Outstanding Rating

Ofsted inspectors had praise for its positive environment

Staff and students at West Thames College celebrate the report

January 24, 2025

West Thames College in Isleworth has received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted following a visit from inspectors last month.

As well as achieving the highest possible rating overall, the inspection team rated the college as Outstanding in 7 of the 8 key judgements, with the 8th area rated as Good.

The college was graded as Outstanding in: the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, education programmes for young people, adult learning programmes, provision for learners with high needs and rated Good for apprenticeships. In addition, its contribution to meeting skills needs was rated as strong.

There was particular praise for the college’s ‘positive environment’ with the inspectors noting that learners “enjoy learning and socialising in highly inclusive, calm and welcoming environments at both campuses.”

The report also praised the conduct of students, stating they “behave impeccably” and interact with respect and harmony.

Young learners were seen to benefit from “a broad and challenging curriculum” which is complemented by strong employer partnerships. For instance, learners on animation courses have the opportunity to “work on projects set by employers”, engaging in hands-on experiences like visits to museums and theatres to enhance their designs, and learners on Aviation courses, “visit Heathrow airport, which helps them understand the varied career opportunities available”.

The report also recognised the impact of the college on adult learners, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Inspectors noted that adult learners “thrive” at the college, describing their experience as “life changing.” They benefit from a “highly relevant curriculum that equips them with the skills they need to progress in their careers and lives.”

The College’s provision for learners with high needs was also seen in a positive light. Inspectors praised the “excellent support” provided to these learners, highlighting that they are equipped with “skills they need”, they have “extensive opportunities to develop their independence, employability and life skills” and are “fully included in college life.”

The report commended the College for its strong contribution to meeting regional and national skills needs. Inspectors noted that leaders and managers “have a strong commitment to meeting skills needs” and are “proactive and respected partners who play a lead role in the local borough and
across west London.” “

Leadership and governance were highlighted as key strengths, with the Inspectors observing that “leaders and managers have high expectations of learners and apprentices. They are ambitious for them to do well.”

Tracy Aust, CEO & Principal said, “I am absolutely delighted that we’ve achieved this Outstanding grade. This is a true testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of our amazing students, staff, governors and partners and it was fantastic that Ofsted was able to witness this first hand. We’ve been on a Journey to Outstanding but this is by no means the end. We will continue to put our students first, to be ambitious, to have high expectations and to serve the needs of our communities. I am incredibly proud of the diverse, inclusive, successful College that is West Thames.”

Stuart McGeoch, Chair of Governors, “Categorisation as Outstanding by Ofsted is a well-deserved reward for three years of really hard work by the staff, management and Board of West Thames. In that time period, the overriding mantra at every stage has been to focus on the creation of an outstanding student experience and the comments of the Ofsted inspectors make clear that is exactly what has been achieved. We look forward to maintaining that in coming years and building on it as we continue to develop our contribution to the local skills environment in West London.”