Oaklands College is thrilled with its recent Ofsted rating for student accommodation, highlighting safety and support for young residents.
St Albans: Oaklands College has a cozy setup for 80 students, all under 18, living in a newly built residential building. It’s a great place for those away from home for the first time.
Jacqueline Page, the deputy principal, expressed how happy they are with the Ofsted rating. She emphasized their commitment to making sure students feel safe and heard.
The report praised the college for knowing its students well and ensuring they feel secure. It highlighted how staff are quick to notice any changes in behavior and check in on students.
One first-year student shared how staff noticed subtle changes and reached out to make sure they were okay. That kind of support really makes a difference.
Ofsted also pointed out that residential students tend to achieve better pass rates and have higher attendance compared to their peers. It’s clear that the environment is beneficial.
Staff take pride in their students’ achievements and are attentive to their mental well-being. The report noted that students felt well-supported during their transition to living on campus.
Students mentioned that the staff helped them make friends and settle in smoothly. Plus, there were no reports of bullying, which is a huge relief.
However, the inspectors suggested that college leaders should work on understanding staff concerns better. They recommended clearer communication about how to share those concerns.
Overall, it sounds like Oaklands College is doing a fantastic job in creating a supportive and safe environment for its students.
