Ofsted

Ofsted inspected LIPA Sixth Form College in February 2025. The inspection came at a particularly challenging time for the college due to a period of unprecedented industrial action. As a consequence of this action, the report rated the college as inadequate.

This is a disappointing outcome, although it is important to note that the report acknowledges many of our core strengths including the ambitious nature of our curriculum, the high quality of our teaching, our unique industry-led opportunities, and the inclusive and safe culture we foster.

As of April 2025, all the areas identified for improvement by Ofsted have been addressed:

• Strike action has been suspended, and the dispute has now been resolved following constructive discussion
• Staff are working closely with students to support their academic progress and ensure they reach their full potential. LIPA Sixth Form College has an excellent track record of achievement, and we are confident that despite the disruption this year’s results will be no exception.
• We have plans in place to ensure students are caught up on missed personal development content.

In short, the report reflects a snapshot from an unprecedented and challenging period that is now firmly behind us.

We remain immensely proud of all our students and staff who have together built a learning environment that delivers transformative training to support students to realise their exceptional potential. At our previous inspection in 2019, we were graded as Outstanding in all areas and we are confident that in the near future, when we are reinspected, our exemplary outcomes and environment will once again be recognised by Ofsted.

This and previous reports can be found on the Ofsted website