College celebrates its Good Ofsted rating

Students and staff at Macclesfield College were joined by local MP, David Rutley, to celebrate progress at the College, and its recent ‘Good’ Ofsted rating.

At the well-attended event, at which a number of local councillors from Cheshire East Council and Macclesfield Town Council were also present, College staff gave an update on the positive progress made since the previous Ofsted Inspection, with provision raised from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’ in just eighteen months. Guests also enjoyed a live routine from the College’s performing arts students.

David was encouraged to learn that 93 per cent of students now secure full-time employment opportunities or engage in further studies after their course at the College, helping to prepare them for a wide range of careers in industries as diverse as motor manufacturing; engineering; pharmaceuticals; hospitality; and media. Ofsted particularly highlighted the close links the College has developed with local employers, and its strong focus on effective careers guidance, as being key factors in driving the significant improvement seen in recent months.

There was further positive news for the College as it was confirmed that Macclesfield College is Cheshire’s top place to study for Level 3 Applied General and Tech level qualifications, according to league tables released by the Department for Education (DfE). The DfE data also demonstrates that the College is outperforming all ten Greater Manchester Further Education Colleges when it comes to students staying in education or gaining employment after leaving. Macclesfield College’s Principal and Chief Executive, Rachel Kay, reaffirmed that the College would continue to work to build on these significant achievements, helping to develop further opportunities for local young people.

Speaking after the event, David said, “Students and staff should be deservedly proud of the remarkable progress that has been made at Macclesfield College since the previous Ofsted inspection. This significant improvement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of Rachel Kay and the College’s leadership team. I look forward to continuing to actively work with the College as it seeks to create more apprenticeship placements and opportunities for young people in and around Macclesfield.”