The Bedford Sixth Form is part of The Bedford College Group

Comprising Bedford College, Central Bedfordshire College, Tresham College, Shuttleworth College, The National College for Motorsport and The Learning Partnership.

‘Good’ in all areas

In October 2024, The Bedford College Group was inspected by Ofsted.

Below are summarised points and the full report is also available to download.

• The Bedford College Group has been graded as Good across all areas inspected and for Overall effectiveness.
• Learners and apprentices develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours that they need to be successful in their future careers. They enjoy their learning and produce work of a good standard.
• Teaching staff are recruited who are well qualified and have suitable industry experience that they use well to enhance curriculum content, this provides learners with valuable and contemporary real-world examples.
• Teaching staff and assistants have a secure understanding of learners’ education and health care plans and use these plans to promote effective learning.
• Staff benefit from well-being services that help them to maintain a positive work-life balance.
• Senior leaders and managers have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the quality of education.
• Senior staff engage effectively with local, regional and national employers and stakeholders to identify priority skills needs.
• Leaders collaborate with stakeholders to understand the need to develop routes into employment for learners who are the furthest away from education and training.
• Civic stakeholders view the college as a trusted organisation, which is keen to respond to the needs of its communities.
• New processes were effectively being embedded to ensure learners and apprentices remain safe.
• Governors are committed to their roles and have a realistic understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the college group.