THREE colleges in Windsor, Langley and Egham have been rated as 'good' by Government inspectors - after getting their first full inspection since merging into the the newly formed Windsor Forest Colleges Group.

Langley and Windsor Colleges and Strode's College, Egham, were visited by a team of 11 Ofsted inspectors who examined all aspects of work carried out at each of the colleges.

The resulting report published on January 6 rated the colleges as ‘good’ for overall effectiveness and ‘good’ in all other inspection areas covering quality, behaviour, personal development, leadership, education for young people, adult learning and apprenticeships.

They praised the 'calm and respectful learning environment' and the quality of teaching, adding: “Learners develop a good understanding of wider society through a well-planned tutorial programme as well as the promotion of relevant content in lessons. Teachers encourage learners to take an active interest in current affairs and to be critical thinkers.”

Group Principal and CEO Kate Webb, said: “What a great result for the group as an organisation, and personally for all the teachers and staff members who have worked so hard to make sure all our learners have the best possible chance of success.

“What is really meaningful about this result is that the inspectors reach their judgements by speaking directly with learners and therefore what is contained in the report is a true reflection of Langley, Strode’s and Windsor Colleges.”

The inspectors commented on the specialist provision for learners with high needs, saying: “Teachers work well with support staff to ensure that learners with high needs are well supported.”

But it also commented on the need to ensure a small number of learners needing to progress further on their courses. This was noted as an area 'requiring improvement' and Ms Webb confirmed steps were already underway to address the issues raised.

The chairman of governors Tony Dixon reflected on the great progress made by the group since the merger saying: “The group executive has worked tirelessly to bring our two organisations together to form one united culture, where the learner comes first."