Richmond upon Thames College teacher helping two students. There is a male and female student sitting at a desk and looking at a notebook that the teacher is pointing to.


A recent inspection by Ofsted has praised Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge Colleges’ (HRUC) teacher training apprenticeship programme.

HRUC’s Initial Teaching Education programme met the Expected standard in the Ofsted report, published earlier this month.

Well prepared

The inspection (which took place in the spring) noted that trainees develop professional knowledge and practical skills so they are well prepared for careers in the further education and skills sector. Most apprentices achieve distinction grades in the teaching practice component of their assessment.

Inspectors highlighted the quality of mentoring arrangements, describing them as a key strength of the programme, and praised the programme’s commitment to safeguarding and inclusion.

Inspectors also found that trainees benefit from extensive wellbeing support.

Ambition and quality

Dylan McTaggart, HRUC Group Executive Principal, said "We are delighted that inspectors recognised the ambition and quality of our teacher training programme. This report reflects our commitment to developing outstanding teachers and providing flexible pathways into the profession."

Compassionate teachers

Louise Southam, HRUC Deputy Principal for Apprenticeships, Quality & Student Services, said: "I have seen for myself how our training helps to create effective and compassionate teachers, so it's great that this was confirmed in our recent Ofsted report. We look forward to working towards opportunities to be graded Strong in all areas in the future."

To read the full publication visit: www.reports.ofsted.gov.uk 

pdf Click to read the full press release here(238 KB)