Activate Learning’s Guildford, Merrist Wood and Farnham colleges have been given an overall ‘Good’ Ofsted assessment.

Ofsted identified the colleges as making “a ‘Strong Contribution’ to identifying and meeting local, regional and national skills needs” – the highest grading possible. 

The celebration at Activate Learning’s Guildford College following its ‘Good’ rating by Ofsted.

The inspection was carried out in November, while the assessment for providing education for learners with high needs has been consistent for the past three Ofsted inspections and was once again assessed by Ofsted as ‘Outstanding’.

Activate Learning’s learning philosophy was also singled out by inspectors, impressed by its implementation across the curriculum. 

The report included: “Teachers are well-qualified subject specialists, who use their knowledge skilfully to explain concepts clearly and successfully stimulate learners’ interest so that they are enquiring learners.”

Ofsted also said Activate Learning prepares learners well for life beyond college.

The chief executive officer of Activate Learning, Gary Headland, said: “I am so pleased that the hard work and commitment of the team has been assessed by Ofsted as ‘Good’ with a ‘Strong Contribution’ to identifying and meeting local, regional and national skills needs.

“This is testament to the work of our dedicated staff who work so hard, day in and day out, to serve our communities through our college campuses in Surrey Berkshire and Oxfordshire, and nationally through apprenticeships, including our cycle academies and the Activate Business School, and our online provision.

“It also reflects so well on the terrific students we have across our colleges, our apprentices and our online students, who are working hard to develop themselves for the future in line with our learning philosophy.”

Guildford MP Angela Richardson visited Guildford College to help mark the celebration of the latest inspection outcome.

She said: “The results of the inspection confirms what students and parents in the local area already know, that Activate Learning’s Surrey colleges are continuing their journey towards excellence.

“Since Activate Learning merged with the Guildford College Group in 2019, we’ve seen a steady increase in the college’s scope and ambition. That sense of purpose is now being responded to by students from across Surrey.

“I extend my warmest congratulations to all those involved in both the running of the colleges and its strategic leadership. Ofsted’s findings rightly acknowledge everything you have achieved.”