College 'proud' of improvements

The college, which is soon to take on its fourth principal in as many years, was last inspected in November 2008 when Ofsted said its achievements and standards were inadequate. This has now been upgraded to satisfactory, following a two-day inspection.

Chairman of the governors Rob Wilmot welcomed the report and said: "I am very proud of what has been achieved by the college.

"Our success rates have increased by double the national average and the financial position of the college has improved greatly. The governing body will continue to focus on offering excellent teaching and learning."

John Taylor took over as interim principal of Doncaster College last summer, with the job of bringing the organisation back from the brink of financial failure.

A monitoring visit by Ofsted inspectors in September 2009 found that "reasonable progress" was being made and a full inspection was then carried out in March.

The results from that partial inspection were published yesterday, just five days before new principal George Trow is set to take up his post.

Mr Trow is set to join Doncaster College from Rotherham's College of Arts and Technology, where he was credited with wiping out a 2.2m deficit during his time in charge.

Problems at Doncaster College were highlighted when a new building, the Hub, opened at a cost of 65m in September 2006.

This was followed by the dismissal of principal David Gates after an extended absence. He was replaced by Rowland Foote, who then left in 2009 after being suspended over complaints about his plans for the future.

Mr Foote was replaced by Mr Taylor, who had the job of "establishing a robust foundation" which would allow the college to move forward.

In the report published yesterday, Ofsted inspectors say the latest inspection specifically looked at "outcomes for learners" and the quality of the provision in sport, leisure and tourism – the areas that were previously deemed to be inadequate.

Both areas have now been raised from "inadequate" to "satisfactory."

The report says: "Since the last full inspection successful management action has increased the overall success rate considerably and it is now close to the national average for similar colleges.

"However, the rate of improvement in success rates on advanced level courses is much slower and these remain below average.

"Learners' progress is satisfactory, although too few students achieve high grades. Attendance has improved and is now satisfactory."

Praising Mr Taylor and the new management structure, the report adds: "The interim principal quickly assessed the college's position and briefed the staff on the extent of its financial problems.

"The first stage of the college's recovery plan has been implemented with considerable cost savings and a significant reduction in the

budget deficit. Financial management has improved.

"The restructure has been managed effectively by the interim principal and his senior management team.

"During this turbulent time student outcomes have improved."

Mr Wilmot said: "The inspection has confirmed that achievements and standards at the college have improved considerably and I am grateful to John and his team for their great work which was recognised by Ofsted.

"The college is in a position to grow and become an efficient and sustainable institution offering a great student experience."