Ashton Sixth Form is officially an 'Outstanding' college

Ashton Sixth Form College is celebrating after being judged as 'Outstanding' in all areas by Ofsted.

Following an inspection back in January, the Darnton Road college has been given the highest possible rating by the education watchdog. 

All areas of the college - the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, education programmes for young people, adult learning programmes, and provision for learners with high needs - were rated as 'Outstanding'. 

The college is the first sixth form provider in the country to convert from Good to Outstanding under the new rigorous Ofsted inspection framework.

Principal Anton McGrath said: "We are all incredibly proud of the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection. The result is testament to the hard work, dedication and talent of all our staff and students.

"Inspectors were hugely impressed with all aspects of our work; they recognised the exceptional academic and pastoral support offered to students and the wide range of opportunities aimed at developing each and every member of our community.

"They also praised our ambition for our students, praised our careers education and were impressed by the range of destinations reached by Ashton Sixth Form College students. We continually strive to be the best and want the best for those who choose us." 

In its report, Ofsted said of the college: "Students are extremely well supported by staff and their peers. Pastoral and academic support is exceptional. Staff help students to achieve high grades and produce work to a consistently high standard."

In January, the college was positioned as the top college in Tameside for the fourth year running, in the official Department for Education league tables, which also rank the college as one of the best in the area for student progress.

Ashton Sixth Form College educates over 2,000 students each year. Last year, over 93 per cent of students successfully progressed on to competitive university courses, apprenticeships and employment.

A statement from the college also said: "This Ofsted inspection is a fantastic achievement for the College, Tameside and the Greater Manchester area which recognises they are committed to providing the highest-quality education to help students achieve their best possible outcome."