University of Suffolk, Ipswich

Higher education institutions

Mixed

Data last updated 11 Sept 2026

Location

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Key Information

DfE GIAS

Head:Professor Helen Langton

LA:Suffolk

Phone:01473338000

Website:uos.ac.uk

Address:Waterfront Building, Neptune Quay, Ipswich, IP4 1QJ

Area:Schools in IP4

Status:open

Opened:1 August 2016

Ofsted Rating

Ofsted · 4 months ago

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

Exceptional

Strong

Expected

Needs Attention

Urgent

Achievement

Strong Standard

Personal Development

Expected Standard

Leadership

Expected Standard

Inspected 5 May 2026View full report

URN:146206

UKPRN:10014001

Diocese:Not applicable

Constituency:Ipswich

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

Ofsted Insights

What This School Does Well

University of Suffolk achieves excellent outcomes for apprentices, with high completion rates and strong progression into employment with enhanced responsibilities. The provider creates an inclusive environment where apprentices with additional needs achieve alongside their peers, receiving personalised support from a dedicated student support team. Lecturers are skilled at connecting classroom learning to real workplace practice, helping apprentices develop confidence and capability in their chosen fields.

Key Strengths

Most apprentices achieve their apprenticeship with high rates across all standards, including those with barriers to learning
Apprentices develop substantial practical skills and progress confidently, with almost all remaining in employment after completion
Leaders prioritise inclusive approaches with extensive staff training and specialist support for apprentices with additional needs
High-quality teaching that links theory to practice, with lecturers using their professional expertise effectively
Apprentices receive strong careers advice and guidance to support their progression

Areas for Improvement

Leaders do not yet systematically review the overall effectiveness and impact of support provided to apprentices with barriers to learning
Feedback on written work is occasionally too general and does not consistently identify how apprentices can improve
Quality of teaching and training in digital technology solutions apprenticeship needs to be sustained at consistently high levels
Involvement of apprentices in wider development activities is variable across different curriculum areas

Safeguarding

Safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an open culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and concerns are actively identified and managed.

Extracurricular Activities

Innovation showcase events, mock interviews, curriculum vitae workshops, employability sessions, career talks, projects with local libraries

University of Suffolk provides apprenticeships at levels 4 to 6 with high achievement rates and strong support for apprentices. The provider has established itself as a collaborative partner with local employers and maintains an inclusive learning environment.