Ofsted Residential Inspection FAQs
What rating did Hartpury College receive following its Ofsted Residential Inspection (2022)?
This inspection rated the residential provision for 16–18-year-olds as ‘requires improvement to be good’.
Hartpury College has a continued commitment to excellent residential provision, and we are disappointed by the outcome of this residential inspection, especially given the College’s previous ‘Outstanding’ rating for its residential provision in 2019 and the two inspections prior, and the improvements that we have put in place since.
Does the College still hold Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ for its academic provision?
Yes, Hartpury College remains Ofsted 'Outstanding in All Areas' (2024) for its academic and curriculum related provision; this 2022 inspection was solely focused on the College’s residential provision for 16–18-year-olds.
Why did the College receive this rating for its residential provision?
The recommendations from Ofsted, which led to the overall rating, largely fall within three categories: the use of bunkbeds which make up just 7% of total bed spaces, the use of cameras e.g., bodycams which have now been withdrawn, and the numbers of staff working with residential students, in particular in the evenings and overnight. Full details can be found on the ‘Ofsted Post-Residential Inspection Plan’ (add link).
Were any safety or safeguarding issues found?
No, the inspection found no issues whatsoever that result in the residential students’ welfare not being safeguarded or promoted.
What is the College doing in response to this outcome?
We are reviewing each of the recommendations as a priority. An ‘Ofsted Post-Residential Inspection Plan’ (add link) has already been developed, which includes further information, context and details of the actions the College is taking. In some cases, we have immediately taken straightforward steps to meet the improvements required.
Have parents/carers and students been informed?
Yes, parents/carers of under-18 College students and all College students themselves will have received an email, including a link to the Ofsted Post-Residential Inspection plan.
Was there also positive feedback from Ofsted?
Yes, some of the positive findings of the latest residential inspection included:
- A wide range of support is offered for students, delivered by well-trained and skilful staff.
- Most students told inspectors they enjoy living at Hartpury. They also value the opportunity to make friends from different walks of life and cultures.
- Students benefit from a wellbeing team, including registered nurses and a mental health nurse.
- Students are well prepared for residential life and benefit from a peer support system.
- The College has a consistent and effective approach to promoting good behaviour.
- Leaders and managers are responsive and proactive.
What happens next?
Ofsted will conduct a monitoring visit approximately six months after the initial inspection. This does not change the inspection grade but will check we are making progress against the recommendations. A further inspection will happen within two years.
I have been contacted by the media or on social media, what should I do?
Should you receive any queries from the media or on social media, please do not respond, but instead forward to media@hartpury.ac.uk.
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