A COLLEGE has been praised by Ofsted for ‘consistently exceeding standards of good’ and had its rating upgraded to ‘outstanding’.

Bournemouth & Poole College provides further education to over 11,000 students across three campuses on Meyrick Road, North Road and Vantage Way.

The college has been rated ‘outstanding’ by the education watchdog in all areas, including how well young people are helped and protected, as well as the effectiveness of leaders and managers.

Inspectors praised the residential accommodation that is provided for specialised chef apprenticeships, saying it helps young people achieve ‘excellent outcomes’.

The report said: “Because of the stability offered by accommodation, and support from the college, young people finish the course able to meet their future career goals.

“Most young people go on to gain full-time employment within the industry, often at prestigious restaurants.”

A spokesperson for the college said residential students are aged 16 to 20 and around 75 per cent of them do not live locally to Bournemouth, Poole or Christchurch.

They added that specialised chef apprentices are employed in some of the best hotels and restaurants across London and surrounding counties, including The Ritz, Claridge’s and in the Royal Household.

Students also receive preparation on living skills, budgeting and personal safety before moving into their work-based placements.

Leaders were described to be ‘highly ambitious and immensely proud’ of the success of graduates.

Phil Sayles, principal at Bournemouth & Poole College, said: “It is wonderful that Ofsted has recognised the hard work of the teams supporting students requiring accommodation.

“This is an excellent report from Ofsted which is testament to the exceptional work delivered by our residential team of student support and wellbeing teams, and academic staff, it really is a team effort.

“We are committed to provide students with a comfortable and outstanding ‘away from home’ experience which aims to increase their knowledge, confidence and independence and it’s fantastic to be acknowledged by Ofsted.”

Debbie Smith, assistant principal for people and student experience, added: “We are delighted that the incredible support and care our students and apprentices receive in our residential provision has been recognised as being outstanding.

“Our specialised chef scholarship programme is both prestigious and award-winning and our students and apprentices on the programme progress to many amazing jobs within the hospitality industry.

“We always have our students at the heart of all they do, and this result demonstrates the comprehensive and excellent support package that enables them to focus on their studies and develop their technical skills to the highest level while also growing in confidence, developing independent living skills, and training for the world of work.”