LTE Group

Overview

The Manchester College (TMC) is judged as ‘Good’ across all inspection categories, including overall effectiveness, the quality of education, and leadership. Inspectors found that students are ‘enthusiastic and motivated to learn’ within a ‘productive, inclusive and welcoming environment’ that prepares them well for employment or further study.

Strengths

• Students ‘willingly take part in activities’ and ‘work safely together’, modelling ‘professional industry standards’ in practical sessions.
• Leaders have created ‘highly effective working relationships’ with local stakeholders to ensure curriculums meet emerging skills needs in Manchester.
• Teachers are ‘industry-experienced’ and use ‘effective questioning techniques’ to assess understanding and correct misconceptions in most lessons.
• The college makes a ‘strong contribution to meeting skills needs’, particularly through vocational courses and support for adults and learners with high needs.
• Students feel ‘safe at college’ and benefit from a strong ‘sense of belonging’, with staff described as ‘friendly, approachable and supportive’.

Areas to improve

• Provide feedback that ‘challenges them to strive higher’ rather than simply confirming work is complete.
• Use questioning techniques that encourage all students to ‘participate fully in class discussions’ to avoid passivity.
• ‘Fully incorporate students’ EHC plan targets into teaching’ to ensure accurate monitoring of progress for learners with high needs.
• Increase attendance on the few courses where it remains ‘too low’.

Safeguarding

The report states that ‘the arrangements for safeguarding are effective’.