Following Labour Spokesperson for Education, Cllr Carol Shelley, writing to Ofsted calling on them to inspect the Swindon UTC, Ofsted has confirmed they will be inspecting Swindon UTC during this school year. Please find the Ofsted inspector’s letter to Cllr Carol Shelley attached.
Last week Councillor Carol Shelley wrote to Ofsted urging them to inspect Swindon UTC after it was found that only 25% of student places were filled at the college and their 2016 results “well below the national average”.
Following a Freedom of Information request, it was discovered the number of students enrolled in each year group as of October 28th were:
Each year group’s capacity is 150.
The University Technical College’s 2016 Key Stage 4 results have also been released and are deemed “well below the national average”, with only 36% of students achieving at least a C Grade in English and Maths. Click on the below link for further information:
https://www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk/school/140972?tab=secondary-provisional
It is also understood that the Principal of Swindon UTC, Angela Barker-Dench is now on extended leave, though the reason for this is currently unknown. Last year when Swindon UTC’s future was in question the Principal said there would be increased numbers at the college in future years.
Labour Spokesperson for Education, Councillor Carol Shelley, said:
“I welcome the fact that Ofsted have confirmed they will be inspecting Swindon’s UTC soon. It will give the UTC’s staff an opportunity to showcase the work they do and will give parents of students at the college reassurance about the quality of education their children are receiving.
I wrote to Ofsted calling on them to bring forward their inspection of the college because it seems by their recent results the education provision is well below an acceptable standard.
Last year, David Cameron launched his party's manifesto while visiting the UTC and proudly announced the success of the college was due his government's support. I hope that if Ofsted does find challenges in the quality of education at the college the Council and the government will do all it needs to support them.”