College judged to be ‘outstanding’ for transforming young lives

Staff and students have spoken of their pride at the overwhelmingly positive outcome from the latest Ofsted inspection, which had no recommendations for improvement.

Principal Laurence Job said: “We are thrilled that Ofsted recognises what we see in the college every day, and what the communities we serve have come to expect – an incredibly positive and respectful culture where our dedicated and highly motivated students and staff enjoy working together to achieve exceptional outcomes.

“We wish to thank everyone for their ongoing hard work that has resulted in such an amazing report.”

Students celebrate the 'outstanding' rating from Ofsted (Image: Chris Barron) Ofsted has rated the college as “Outstanding”, the highest grade possible, in all seven categories – overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, education programmes, and provision for learners with high needs – underlining its position as one of the best sixth forms in the country.

The report praises leaders and governors for enabling staff to deliver “a clear and ambitious vision that the college will provide high-quality, transformational education”.

Inspectors commend the exemplary work ethic of QE’s students and their relationships with staff, adding: “Students are studious, inquisitive and keen to learn. They display very positive attitudes to their learning and to life in the college’s inclusive community.

“Students value and speak enthusiastically about the extensive knowledge and skills they are developing and how these will help them to achieve their future ambitions. Leaders, managers and teachers are committed to developing students’ passion for learning.”

Inspectors are equally highly complimentary about the college’s members of staff, stating: “Teachers have expert knowledge about the subjects that they teach. They inspire students with their passion for their subjects.”

The report also praises how QE’s students develop a wide range of social, personal and leadership skills from “a rich range of opportunities to engage with the wider community, including supporting local charities.” 

Students are also given “a range of relevant and meaningful opportunities to work with employers and gain experience of work.”

Michaela Pampalou, Student Union President at the college, said: “I’m not surprised by the report because I’ve had immense levels of support since I started. It’s a place that offers so many opportunities for students, both academically and socially.”

Vice President Jack Parvin, who lives in Middlesbrough, added: “I feel fortunate to go to the college because it’s such a great place to learn. I feel so much more confident now because of the support and opportunities I’ve been given, such as working with the council on the Darlington Youth Cabinet.”

Tim Fisher, Chief Executive of the Northern Arch Learning Partnership, said: “Queen Elizabeth is a pivotal academy within the Northern Arch family, and this exceptional report not only underlines what a fantastic sixth form college we have in Darlington, but reflects our ambitions for young people across the trust.”