Warsash and Solent's water sports centre are 'outstanding'
Thursday 2 February 2012
Southampton Solent University’s further education provision at Warsash Maritime Academy and Sport Solent’s Watersports Centre, has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
In the report, published this week, inspectors rated the effectiveness of the provision overall, the quality of the provision, and outcomes for learners as ‘outstanding’ (Grade 1). Grade 1 was also awarded to the two subject areas of Maritime Studies and Sport.
The inspection report states: ‘The quality of the provision is very strong, with expert tutors, excellent support for students and exemplary links with relevant employers and regulatory bodies.’
The report recognised that ‘the development of students’ economic and social well-being is exemplary’, and that ‘staff at all levels share an unwavering focus on ensuring that students achieve their goals’.
Sport Solent’s water-based courses for further education colleges, as well as students on the University’s higher education courses, were singled out for praise. In the academic year, 362 learners had enrolled on The Royal Yachting Association’s two-day courses at introductory and intermediate level, covering theoretical and practical aspects of keel boat and power boat sailing.
The report found that in lessons the students ‘make very good progress, developing new skills and gaining knowledge quickly. They develop excellent team working skills, build their confidence and support each other well to achieve tasks.’
The quality of teaching was said to be good and resources used to support teaching and learning was deemed excellent. Care, guidance and support, as well as leadership and management were also describes as excellent in the Ofsted report.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Jane Longmore, says: “This tremendous result demonstrates how closely our FE provision is aligned with the strategic intentions of the University. Staff and students can be justifiably proud of this external recognition of their hard work, commitment and achievements.”
The full report can be found at http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/find-inspection-report/provider/ELS/133878|
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE MEDIA OFFICE ON 023 8031 9040
Southampton Solent University offers more than 19,000 students over 200 qualifications ranging from HND to PhD, in subjects such as maritime education and training, fashion and design, media and television, music, sport and leisure, business, IT and technology.
Solent has set its fees for 2012 at £7,800, rather than at the maximum level, because it is determined to achieve a fair balance between the commitment to offering places based on student potential - irrespective of family income - and the need to continue to improve the experience of the students attending the University.