Sidmouth College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 March 2026

Pupils, including post-16 students, generally enjoy their learning at Sidmouth College. They follow an ambitious curriculum and receive teaching that builds their knowledge and skills over time. For example, at key stage 4, pupils secure the qualifications they need in English and mathematics. Students in the post-16 provision now receive improved teaching, which has strengthened their achievement. As a result, pupils and students generally achieve well and are prepared for their next steps. Pupils with barriers to learning or wellbeing typically receive the effective teaching and support that they need. Pupils have positive relationships with staff. Pupils value the teaching and support that they receive and the wider experiences that the school provides. For example, they appreciate belonging to a ‘house’, such as ‘Drake’ or ‘Raleigh’. They enjoy this opportunity to collaborate with their peers, for example gathering charity donations or competing in sports day. Pupils benefit from a range of extra-curricular activities. Opportunities such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and the Ten Tors build pupils' confidence and resilience. Pupils value experiences to perform together as a sports team or in a theatrical show. Pupils attend school regularly. They generally behave well and have positive attitudes to learning. Pupils feel safe and have trusted members of staff with whom they can share concerns. Leaders ensure that they deal effectively with any incidents of bullying. This gives pupils confidence to report unkind behaviour. Pupils learn how to be positive members of the community through demonstrating kindness. They have opportunities to contribute to the wider community, such as meeting with residents in a local care home. On the whole, pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain. Occasionally, however, they lack understanding of some important aspects of British values.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that they embed teaching approaches that consistently remove barriers to pupils’ learning.
• Leaders should strengthen achievement further so that more pupils and post-16 students achieve highly.
• Leaders should strengthen the impact of the personal development programme so that pupils are very well prepared for life in modern Britain.

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