16-18
Apprenticeships
University Level
Adult Learning
Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College has hit the ground running following its recent merger – receiving a ‘Good’ rating in all eight categories of its first Ofsted inspection as a merged institution, along with the notable distinction of making a “strong contribution to meeting skills needs”.
Conducted over four days in May, the inspection involved 13 Ofsted inspectors who reviewed the College’s provision across both campuses. They met with students, staff, employers and stakeholders, and assessed areas including the quality of education, leadership, personal development, behaviour and attitudes, and apprenticeships.
Inspectors noted that staff “create a calm and focused learning environment where learners and apprentices can concentrate on their education and contribute well to lessons”. The report also highlights the College’s “positive and supportive culture”, as well as how “lecturers and other staff help learners and apprentices with their well-being and develop their confidence and resilience”.
The close partnership between College staff and a local advanced engineering company ensures that the Apprenticeship curriculum effectively meets the needs of both employers and apprentices” – Ofsted report
Regional skills impact recognised
Crucially, the College was singled out as likely the only provider in Dorset to be recognised for its strong role in addressing regional skills needs. The report states: “College leaders are very effectively and actively involved in local and regional decision-making.
“They play a crucial role in identifying, shaping and achieving the area’s skills priorities.”
This recognition underlines the College’s growing influence in ensuring that students progress into higher education or careers aligned with local economic and industry demand.
“Leaders and managers ensure that the curriculums they provide are ambitious for all, including those with high needs and SEND” – Ofsted report
A College on the rise
With more than 2,600 learners, including 330 adult students and nearly 300 apprentices, the College offers a wide-ranging curriculum – from A Levels and newly launched T Levels, to land-based and technical training.
Ofsted praised the College’s broad curriculum, saying: “Leaders and managers ensure that the curriculums they provide are ambitious for all learners, including those with high needs and SEND.”
Kate Wills, Principal and CEO
Kate Wills, Principal and CEO, welcomed the report, commenting: “I am so pleased that Ofsted has recognised the hard work and dedication of our staff, and our clear commitment to delivering skills that matter to this region.
“Since the merger, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure our curriculum and apprenticeship offer is aligned with industry needs. Every one of our students deserves the best support to succeed in life and work – and that’s exactly what we’re delivering.
“This result reflects the efforts of our entire college community – staff, students, employers, and regional partners and I want to thank them all for playing their part.”
Chair of the Board, Chris Evans
Chair of the Governing Board, Chris Evans, added: “This Ofsted result is a fantastic endorsement of the vision, commitment and expertise that has shaped the College since merger. It’s a strong foundation for the future – and clear recognition that we’re on the right path.
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank all our staff for their dedication to students and to providing the skills training needed to ensure Dorset and our region can truly flourish. The College is now primed for even greater success, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead for our students, our communities, and the region we serve.”
Looking ahead
The newly merged College now stands as a major force in the region and across the land-based sector for career-focused, industry-aligned education – with strong foundations and ambitious plans.
“This is just the start,” added Principal Kate Wills. “We have some exciting news coming later this summer that will show just how serious we are about positioning the College, and our students, for the future.”
You can find a copy of the full Ofsted report here.
Early Years learners acquire an understanding of theories and how to apply this knowledge for different needs” – Ofsted report