For the second time in six years, Ofsted has awarded the grade of ‘Outstanding’ to our college, recognising our commitment to, and success in, achieving the college’s mission of “An Exceptional Education for All.” Our latest Ofsted report reveals JCC to be a truly exceptional institution and the first Sixth Form College in England that has been judged as making a ‘strong’ contribution (the highest possible grade) to the development of skills urgently in demand among the local community as well as the wider country.
Experience Our Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ College for Yourself
Joseph Chamberlain College is opening its doors to prospective students and families on Saturday 18th October 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore our outstanding teaching, facilities, and student support in person. Registrations for our Open Day will open in September; please check our website for the latest updates and to secure your place.
Here are some highlights from our Ofsted report:
“Learners make substantial and sustained progress from their starting points.”
Our college has once again been rated Outstanding by Ofsted, an exceptional achievement, especially under Ofsted’s tougher new framework. Inspectors praised our “safe and intellectually invigorating environment,” and the strong culture that helps students thrive and move on to higher education or employment.
“Learners develop substantial new knowledge and skills and produce work to a consistently high standard.”
Ofsted stated that our teachers “expertly use a variety of teaching strategies and resources” to help students remember, apply, and build on what they’ve learned. Regular assessment and skilled planning ensure that every student knows how to improve and achieves at the highest level.
“Learners’ behaviour is exemplary.”
Ofsted found that our students show “highly positive attitudes and commitment to their education.” They are engaged, punctual, and motivated, and they also “routinely volunteer their ideas and opinions” in lessons. Attendance is high, and students help to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment.
“Learners benefit from a broad range of opportunities to help them prepare for their next steps.”
Whether it’s science Olympiads, debating society, or work placements, our students “take part in curriculum enhancement activities” that build real-world skills and confidence. JCC helps all learners “be prepared for life in modern Britain” through enrichment and education on safety, community, and independence.
“Leaders have developed highly ambitious curriculums.”
Ofsted commended the “very experienced” governors and leadership team for driving strategic success. They “scrutinise leaders’ performance effectively” and “provide robust challenge and actively support leaders and staff.” This ensures our courses raise aspirations and open doors for every learner.
“Almost all younger learners progress successfully to further or higher education or employment.”
Our courses are designed to support outstanding outcomes, with “most learners achieving high grades.” Individualised support, expert teaching, and state-of-the-art facilities help every student reach their potential and take confident next steps.
“Adult learners on ESOL courses develop confidence and fluency in their English-speaking skills.”
Our adult provision reaches deep into local communities, with classes held “at venues in the heart of their communities to encourage participation.” Courses are designed to help adults “successfully integrate within their communities” and move on to further study or employment.
“Learners with high needs can actively take part in lessons and attain the same high levels of achievement as their peers.”
With personalised, individual support and inclusive teaching, learners with high needs become more independent and thrive alongside their classmates. Ofsted praised our use of “well-planned support” and accessible technology to break down barriers to success.
“Overall effectiveness at previous inspection: Outstanding.”
We are incredibly proud to have retained our Outstanding rating for a second time, something extremely difficult to achieve under Ofsted’s more demanding new framework. The report calls this “a significant accomplishment,” and we agree. Our Principal, Tony Day, said it is “the perfect endorsement of the tireless work we do to educate and support our students.”