OFSTED inspectors have praised the support and accommodation for students living at Wiltshire College & University Centre’s Lackham campus.
The inspectors spent three days talking to students and staff at the campus, which has 38 young people aged 16 to 18 living there.
“There is excellent support in place for students with an education, health and care plan, with additional input from staff, so students are prepared for the workplace,” said the inspectors’ report, which rated the overall experiences and progress of young people as ‘Good’.
Students told inspectors they enjoy living on campus and feel very supported, as residential staff are always available and willing to help. “Students have a positive experience moving in, so they feel settled,” the report said.
“Inductions are well organised, and staff provide an informative and fun programme for students, that helps them to form positive relationships. Parents are pleased there is a robust system in place, so staff always know a student’s whereabouts.”
They noted that students are able to talk to residential staff, the wellbeing team and counsellors, and have access to a 24/7 student assistance programme. “Staff have in-depth knowledge of students in their care that helps them provide effective support and intervention,” said the report.
Inspectors found that behaviour is well managed because of the way staff spend time getting to know and understand the students, most of whom are living away from home for the first time. “Students understand behavioural expectations and potential consequences because staff give them clear information,” they said.
“At the end of the last academic year, 100 per cent of students went on to positive destinations at the end of their course. Furthermore, most students who study at Level 2 go on to the Level 3 course.”
Students living on site are studying Level 2 and 3 and apprenticeships in land management and animal care at Lackham and motorsport at Chippenham and Castle Combe, as well as other courses.
The inspectors were impressed with the standard of the accommodation offered. “Student bedrooms are spacious and well equipped, and extensive improvements have ensured that halls of residence feel homely and welcoming,” they said.
Staff told inspectors they enjoy working at the college and feel supported by leaders and managers. “They have access to a wide range of training, so feel equipped to support students’ needs,” the inspectors reported.
Executive Director Chris Thompson said he was delighted with the report, particularly for the staff at Lackham. “I’m really pleased that the hard work put in by Residential Accommodation Services Manager Jess Duffy and her team was recognised when the inspectors spoke about the positive experience our students have,” he said.
“Our staff are on call around the clock, seven days a week, and put in a tremendous amount of work to make the students feel safe, supported and happy. It’s no wonder they go on to have such success here.
“I’m also delighted the inspectors were impressed with our ongoing improvement plan for the accommodation. We’re constantly updating it to ensure the students have an even better experience.”
