Oldham Sixth Form College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 October 2022

Students thoroughly enjoy their time at OSFC. They have positive and mature attitudes to learning, are enthusiastic and eager to participate. Attendance is very high. Students consistently demonstrate the college values of being 'responsible, respectful and ready to learn'. Students and teachers share a calm and focused classroom environment. Students feel comfortable and enjoy sharing their knowledge and working with their peers. Students speak highly of the inclusive culture at OSFC. They describe how diversity is celebrated and everyone is welcomed. The equality, diversity and inclusion group focus on understanding and supporting all of the students at the college. This includes raising awareness of different cultures, sexual orientations and socio- economic backgrounds. Students benefit from studying and socialising with other students who are different to themselves. Students access a wide range of additional activities through the college 'Xtras' programme. They take part in sports events and charity fundraising for mental health awareness and pink day for breast cancer. Students volunteer for reading- buddy schemes in schools and become science, and well-being ambassadors. Students on the aspiring medics' and aspiring lawyers' programmes access a range of talks from guest speakers which supports them in completing applications to university. Consequently, students flourish as individuals and become more active citizens in their communities. Students feel safe. They learn about important topics such as healthy relationships, forced marriage, consent and the dangers of meeting people online. Students feel confident to come forward for support if they have a concern.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should raise expectations so that all students gain the detailed knowledge they require for their next steps and are challenged to achieve their highest potential.
• Leaders should ensure that all teachers focus on ensuring that students have sufficient knowledge in advance of assessments so that more students pass their assessments on their first attempt.
• Leaders should ensure that staff monitor the progress of students with high needs towards their wider education and health care plan outcomes so that students are fully equipped with all of the knowledge and behaviours required for independence.

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