College rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted for international student offering

A New Forest college's offering to international students has been graded 'Outstanding' by Ofsted.

Brockenhurst College received the new rating following a three-day visit in February 2024.

The report stated that it provides "highly effective services" to international students who are studying at the college whilst living with families in the area.

During the visit, inspectors examined residential sites for students under Brock's Homestay programme as well as assessing the overall experiences and progress of young people.

The latest findings follow a separate college-wide inspection last November which resulted in a 'Good' rating in all areas.

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The most recent report said: "The college provides highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good.

"The actions of the college contribute to significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for young people.

"Physical and mental well-being is given high priority. There is a common understanding that, for learners to be able to learn effectively, they need to feel well.

"To support this, the college has developed a multi-disciplinary well-being team."

At the time of the inspection, which evaluated safeguarding measures across the whole college, the college had 48 residential learners.

Brockenhurst College in the New Forest (Image: Brockenhurst College)

Brockenhurst College Principal Helen Odhams was "delighted" with the new ranking.

She said: “International students are a valued part of both our college community and the broader Brockenhurst community, and this recognition reflects our staff's unwavering commitment to providing top-quality education.”

College International Manager, Paul Spanner, added: “I want to extend my most sincere thanks to all our Homestay host families.

“Their support is essential to maintaining the high standard of provision available to our international community, and I encourage anyone in the local area who feels they can offer the same level of hospitality to explore our paid Homestay opportunities.”

Safeguarding lead Steve Jenkin thanked all staff and hosts for their "focus, diligence, vigilance, empathy and hard work".

Brockenhurst College provides a range of A Level, vocational and apprenticeship programmes as well as higher education programme, skills and training courses for adults and bespoke services to business.

The College has more than 2,800 16-19 year old students and around 5,000 adult learners.

It attracts a high proportion of international students and has its own staff delivering A Level programmes in schools in China.