St Vincent College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 5 December 2023

Students enjoy the calm, happy and positive environment at the college. They behave well, are respectful and care for one another. Students take part in 'positive noticing day' to encourage kindness to their peers and staff. Adult students enjoy the relaxed and supportive approach that teachers take. As a result, students contribute well to a positive climate of learning. Students take pride in their work and are motivated to succeed. Many are ambitious about their learning and progress. For example, students with high needs strive for golden referrals and all students for the prestige of being 'student of the week'. Students value the support of staff to be the best they can be. Students have high aspirations for their futures, whether this be higher education, employment or further training. Many display the personal qualities, resilience and confidence they need to be successful. Students benefit from opportunities to become tolerant and respectful British citizens and to appreciate the diversity around them. They participate well in a range of activities that develop their understanding of and contribution to their communities and wider society. For example, students raise awareness and money for charities related to neurodiversity. Students with high needs make weekly visits to a residential care home to support elderly residents to socialise. Students from minority groups benefit from the support and care of staff. Consequently, students value multiculturalism and become active citizens who strengthen their communities. Most students fulfil the high expectations that staff set for them. They benefit from effective support, encouragement and structure. Students facing challenges are helped by dedicated staff to get back on track with their learning. For example, students who are disadvantaged respond well to the help learning coaches provide and the support for welfare available. As a result, most students gain the valuable skills they need for successful learning and employment. Students benefit from opportunities to participate in a wide range of enrichment activities, such as e-sports competitions, forensic psychology and book club. They learn about how to keep mentally and physically healthy. For example, students enjoy park walks that benefit their well-being. Students with high needs learn how to regulate their emotional health through gardening therapy and using the gym. While students benefit from a coherently planned tutorial programme, leaders rightly recognise students' need a deeper awareness of current issues that might affect them or their communities. Students feel safe, including online. They know that staff do not tolerate bullying or harassment. The vast majority of students are confident that staff would take seriously any concerns they have and act rapidly and appropriately as a consequence.

What the school should improve

• Continue to further improve students' attendance across all areas of the college's provision.
• Ensure the tutorial programme is relevant to the needs of all students.

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