Redbridge Institute of Adult Education has been rated outstanding by Ofsted. The inspectorate’s report, published this morning, said the adult learning provider in East London was outstanding in all areas, having been rated good in its previous inspection.

The report says leaders, managers and governors have inspired staff to create “a culture of excellence, tolerance and respect, where learners and staff express their individuality and thrive in a harmonious, high-quality learning environment”.

It adds that  the quality of teaching, learning and assessment is outstanding, and “teachers have extremely high expectations of their learners, their enthusiasm to pass on their knowledge to learners is infectious and lessons are fun”.

According to Ofsted statistics, the most recent local authority provider to be rated outstanding was Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council in 2015.

Inspirational work

Sue Pember, director of policy and external relations at adult education body Holex, said members were “very pleased and excited that an adult community learning (ACL) provider has been recognised by Ofsted as outstanding overall, and in all areas and with no areas needing to be developed”.

“The work Redbridge Institute does is inspirational, and this can be seen throughout the report. We are especially pleased that it was recognised that teachers support learners to develop their confidence, pride in their work and motivation to learn, as well as a strong sense of belonging and well-being.”

Exceptional providers

Joni Cunningham, principal at Redbridge Institute, said: “This result really puts Redbridge on the map and recognises the commitment, support and expertise of all our staff who provide the innovative and inclusive provision which enables our very diverse range of learners to thrive and succeed. I am very proud of both the learners’ achievement and what they will go on to contribute to their communities, as well as the commitment and professionalism which our staff have always shown in supporting them.”

Exceptional adult and community learning (ACL) providers will be recognised at next year’s Tes FE Awards, which opened for entries last week. A total of 11 awards are up for grabs - from FE leader of the year to college of the year. In February, Lancashire Adult Learning became the inaugural winner of the award.