Recently Merged College Judge To Be The Best In Birmingham
Staff and students at South & City College Birmingham and Bournville College are celebrating after receiving a “Good” Ofsted grade across all areas, just fifteen months after the two establishments merged. The college, with campuses in six locations across the city, is now judged to be the best Further Education College in Birmingham. The Ofsted report follows a successful inspection which took place in November 2018, where inspectors observed lessons, met with staff, students, governors, employers and key stakeholders. Inspectors were impressed with the achievement rates of students who leave the college to go on to pursue higher education, employment, promotion or training having developed good practical and vocational skills under the guidance of highly-skilled teachers. The report highlights the college’s inclusive environment and the progress students make, adding that “students benefit from highly effective pastoral guidance and support, which means that they remain on their course”. The personal development, behaviour and welfare of students were also judged to be “Good”. The inspection report highlighted structured and meaningful work experience and a comprehensive programme of guest speakers and enrichment activities, all of which contribute towards the development of students’ skills for employment. The inspection also included the newly established Bournville College Vocational Academy for 14-16-year-old students. The Academy was praised for a broad and balanced curriculum, strong and productive relationships between staff and pupils and for the progress pupils make in a safe environment. Principal, Mike Hopkins, commented: “Coming so soon after the merger with Bournville College, we are delighted with the inspection outcome and how it clearly shows the college is totally focused on its students. It also shows what incredible, dedicated and capable staff we have. Anyone considering where to study only has to read the Ofsted report to see that no matter who you are, this is the college where you will be supported, be safe and above all else will achieve your qualifications. We are now beginning our journey from “Good” to “Outstanding”.” Each year, South & City College Birmingham supports the education and training of over 22,000 individuals. For further information, visit www.sccb.ac.uk
Actor David Harewood backs Future First alumni networks in Birmingham state schools
Former state students in Birmingham are to help transform current students’ opportunities and give them a better start in life by going back to their old schools in an initiative to build an alumni network in schools and colleges in the city. The programme – run by the education charity Future First – has been backed by the Birmingham born actor David Harewood who went to Washwood Heath Academy in Burney Lane, Stechford. The school is one of a thousand state schools and colleges across Britain which have worked with Future First to encourage more schools to see alumni as a valuable resource in broadening the jobs horizons of the current generation and preparing them to navigate the transition from school to work. Private schools and universities have long seen the value of keeping alumni in close contact after they have left. More than 226,000 former students nationwide have already signed up to stay connected with their old school. They’re motivating young people as career and education role models, mentors, work experience providers, governors and fundraisers by volunteering at assemblies and workshops designed to broaden young people’s jobs horizons and help them achieve a career of their choice regardless of their background. David, whose film and TV career includes the TV series Homeland and The Night Manager, said: “It’s difficult for young people to understand the skills needed in the world of work unless they meet people in interesting careers. I was very fortunate because I achieved the career I wanted, but not everyone has that opportunity. Future First can help give young people in Birmingham that chance, whatever their background. I’d urge everyone to broaden young people’s jobs horizons by signing up to Future First’s network.” Matt Lent, Chief Executive Officer of Future First said: “Students cannot be what they cannot see. It is vital to open their eyes to opportunities beyond their own world and show them the range of jobs available. Alumni help schools do this by acting as relatable positive role models. If a student sees someone who has the same background has gone on to achieve success, they are far more likely to think they can too.” Future First works in six Birmingham schools, Ninestiles an Academy, Greenwood Academy, Turves Green Girls’ School, Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls, Kings Norton Girls School as well as Washwood Heath Academy. For more information, see the Future First website here. Picture captions: Actor David Harewood supports Future First’s work in Birmingham state schools.