Newcastle City Learning, a post-16 learning provider and part of Newcastle City Council, has been praised by Ofsted for providing a life-changing, high‑quality, and inclusive learning experience, following its inspection in March 2026.
The service, which offers courses for adults, programmes for young people, apprenticeships and employer responsive provision, was judged to be operating at a “Strong standard” in thirteen categories, recognising the provider’s exceptional commitment to inclusion, high achievement and learner wellbeing.
Learners and apprentices “describe a strong sense of belonging in the Newcastle City Learning community. They are encouraged to take part in activities beyond their courses, develop friendships and build confidence in their abilities.”
Adult learners described their experience as “life‑changing”, while young people who had previously disengaged from education quickly develop confidence, attendance and positive attitudes to learning.
Gillian Forrester, Head of Newcastle City Learning, said: “We are extremely proud of this outcome. It reflects the passion, expertise and dedication of our staff and the resilience and commitment of our learners. This report recognises the difference Newcastle City Learning makes every day, supporting people to thrive, achieve and move confidently into their next steps.”
Ofsted commended Newcastle City Learning for creating a highly inclusive environment where learners of all ages and abilities are supported to succeed, stating “Staff work extremely closely with learners and apprentices prior to starting their course to establish any support needs. Staff quickly implement strategies to reduce barriers to learning, and work alongside practitioners such as social workers and the youth justice team to ensure that learners receive the support they need.”
Inspectors highlighted the responsive and flexible support offer, including dedicated pastoral spaces, a sensory room, specialist facilities and tailored work placements that meet learners’ interests and aspirations.
The report also recognises the very high achievement rates across young people’s programmes, adult learning, apprenticeships and provision for learners with high needs. Learners make rapid and sustained progress from their starting points, produce high‑quality work and gain valuable qualifications.
Almost all learners progress into further education, higher‑level courses, employment or apprenticeships, while adult learners develop confidence, skills and independence that prepare them well for work and active participation in their communities, with the report highlighting that: “Learners’ progression is very positive, almost all go on to higher-level courses at colleges, into related work, apprenticeships or enrol on another course at the local authority.”
Apprenticeships were particularly praised, with very high achievement and distinction rates, strong employer engagement and apprentices demonstrating increased professionalism, confidence and workplace impact.
Inspectors highlighted the strength of leadership, governance and teaching, noting that leaders have a clear vision focused on supporting disadvantaged learners and those with poor previous experiences of education, adding “Teachers plan learning tasks to ensure that learners work towards personal targets and learning goals in a logical way.” And “They provide effective and engaging teaching using a range of strategies.”
The report confirms that Newcastle City Learning is making a significant difference to the lives of learners in Newcastle, combining strong achievement with outstanding support and care.