Newbury College, Newbury

Post-16

Further education

Mixed

Ages 14–99

Data last updated 11 Sept 2026

Location

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Key Information

DfE GIAS

Head:Mr Lee Probert

LA:West Berkshire

Phone:01635845000

Website:newbury-college.ac.uk

Address:Monks Lane, Newbury, RG14 7TD

Area:Schools in RG14

Admissions:Not applicable

Status:open

Ofsted Rating

Ofsted · 6 months ago

Report card - no overall grade (new Ofsted framework from Sep 2024)

Exceptional

Strong

Expected

Needs Attention

Urgent

Achievement

Expected Standard

Personal Development

Expected Standard

Leadership

Expected Standard

Inspected 24 March 2026View full report

URN:130602

UKPRN:10004596

Diocese:Not applicable

Constituency:Newbury

Urban/Rural:Smaller rural: Nearer to a major town or city

Ofsted Insights

What This School Does Well

Newbury College creates a genuinely inclusive environment where all learners feel valued and supported to overcome barriers to learning. The college works closely with local employers to provide relevant, practical training that prepares young people and adults for real careers - from heat pump maintenance to sports industry leadership. Teaching is particularly strong in vocational subjects like engineering, sports and beauty therapy, where learners develop impressive hands-on skills.

Key Strengths

Strong inclusive culture where learners feel welcomed and well cared for with prompt identification of support needs
Excellent employer engagement and curriculum design that meets local skills priorities, including heat pump installation and specialist engineering training
Expert teaching in most subjects, particularly engineering, sports and beauty therapy, with learners developing high-level practical skills
Leaders and governors have clear vision and are committed to continuous improvement with well-considered strategies
Strong progression outcomes with most learners moving to further education, employment or training

Areas for Improvement

GCSE English and mathematics teaching not helping learners close knowledge gaps sufficiently to improve on previous attainment
Careers information and guidance scheduled too late in the academic year, leaving learners unprepared for next steps decisions
Attendance in GCSE English and mathematics below expected levels due to mental health challenges and transport issues
Teachers not using targets set for learners consistently to help them achieve full potential
Need to improve how online adult learners' needs are identified

Safeguarding

Safeguarding standards are met - leaders have created an open culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and concerns are actively identified and managed, making learners safer and helping them feel safe.

Extracurricular Activities

Crochet and knitting clubs, cooking groups, fundraising activities, European sports tours, work experience placements, employer visits

Newbury College is a further education provider offering courses for young people, apprentices and adults across engineering, sports, healthcare, and other vocational areas. The college has established an inclusive culture and responds well to regional skills needs through employer partnerships.