LIPA Sixth Form College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 28 April 2026

Students benefit from multiple and frequent opportunities to take part in work-related learning. Every project is subject to industry-standard expectations and work environments. Technical theatre students provide live technical support for rehearsals and productions, often working with high levels of autonomy. They feel the responsibility of their role in the same way as the performance students do in live performances. Performance students are held to the same high expectations and standards as they would be in a professional context. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves to try new techniques and work outside their comfort zone. They develop self-reliance, independence and confidence from the start of their course. Students quickly feel like they belong. They thrive at college. Students participate in social action and community projects, led by an active student council, that support their understanding of diversity and vulnerability in the community and roles as responsible citizens. Students organise fundraising events that benefit charities involved in cancer research and awareness, mental health and wellbeing and childhood illness. They benefit from opportunities to engage with other creative professionals and take part in external competitions. Students enjoy studying at the college. They value the support that they receive and the progress that they make. Students, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) or barriers to learning, feel well supported by staff and peers at college. They feel seen and listened to. Students enjoy positive working relationships, and find that staff are vigilant to their needs and make adaptations that help them. Students with SEND and barriers to learning explain how staff make them feel comfortable to ask for any help that they need. They do not feel judged because of their support needs. Students explain how this helps them to develop their independence and helps them to do well.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to improve teachers' skills so that students benefit from a consistently high-quality curriculum and expert teaching and training across all pathways.
• Leaders should fully embed the new personal development curriculum so that students confidently and routinely apply and demonstrate fundamental British values, tolerance and respect.
• Leaders should implement a systematic approach to planning, reviewing and adapting the support that students need to progress, achieve and thrive.
• Leaders and trustees should continue to build on the improving relationships they have fostered with staff following the mistrust previously prevalent.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)