Southport Education Group

Overview

The report states that overall effectiveness "Requires improvement," though the quality of education is judged as "Good." While most learners enjoy their courses and behave well, the provider faces challenges with attendance, apprenticeship provision, and staff stability.

Strengths

• Most vocational and academic staff "carefully plan curriculums" to help learners embed key principles, with effective teaching in subjects like A-level mathematics and beauty therapy.
• Learners with high needs receive "effective individualised support," allowing them to make positive progress and prepare for work placements.
• Adult learners benefit from "appropriate and well-planned curriculums" that facilitate progression to further education or employment, such as ESOL and counselling courses.
• Leaders provide "effective careers education" for young learners, including guidance on personal statements and events with higher education providers.
• The college makes a "reasonable contribution to meeting skills needs" through strong links with local stakeholders and investment in specialist equipment.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must "set clear and measurable actions to improve the quality of education for apprentices," as weaknesses from the previous inspection remain unresolved.
• Staff need to ensure they are aware of learners’ prior knowledge to "plan challenging curriculums for all," particularly for apprentices and adult learners.
• The provider must "swiftly improve attendance for learners and apprentices," as too many miss classes.
• Leaders should "reduce the level of disruption experienced by learners and apprentices arising from turnover in college staffing."

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."