Croydon College, Croydon

What is it like to be a learner with this provider?

Learners and apprentices say that as soon as they walk into college, they feel safe. They have a good understanding of the risks present in the local area and staff have helped them to develop their resilience and knowledge of how to protect themselves from issues, such as mobile telephone theft. Through the redesigned tutorial programme, teachers and external partners teach learners and apprentices about emergency first aid and the dangers associated with drug and knife crime. Many learners say the college is a safe haven.

Most young learners at Coulsdon college, including those with SEND, enjoy a much-improved curriculum since the most recent inspection. This is because leaders and teachers have focused on improving teaching and assessment in A levels and level 3 courses. On many courses, teachers help learners remember what they have learned through frequent assessment. They track learners' progress closely and give learners practical activities to consolidate what they have been taught and apply their new skills. The proportion of learners who achieve their qualifications at Coulsdon has increased markedly. Learners on courses in physics, psychology, science, mathematics, and art and design achieve particularly well.

What does the provider do well and what does it need to do better?

Since the previous inspection, leaders, staff and those responsible for governance have taken effective actions to improve the quality of education, behaviour and attendance at both campuses. They have rightly focused their attention on improving the curriculum, and quality of teaching and assessment for young learners and those who have high needs. They have made notable improvements across these areas. This has led to increased and high achievement rates in many subjects for learners and apprentices.

Leaders have set high expectations for learners' attendance. Learners' behaviour is good, and attendance rates have increased and are now high on most courses. Not all young learners are punctual to their lessons, however, and leaders recognise this continues to be an area for improvement.

Quality of education, Behaviour & attitudes, Personal development, Leadership & management.

Train Stations

Tube / Metro / Tram

Bus Stops