Unions hit back at TCAT criticism

The University and College Union (UCU) and Unison said the an Ofsted report was "unduly negative".

Inspectors from the education watchdog said governors and senior leaders at TCAT have failed to provide effective leadership and management, they criticised the level of attendance that was described as "very low and declining", and said apprentices make slow progress, have low achievement rates and teachers' expectations of learners are too low.

Quality of teaching, behaviour and learning outcomes, 16 to 19 study, adult study and apprenticeships were all said to be inadequate.

But unions representing staff say they are determined to put students first despite challenges.

In a joint statement the unions say that Ofsted's own Learner View Survey found that nine out of 10, or 91 per cent, of students agreed or strongly agreed that their course or programme met their needs.

And that 85 per cent of students also agreed or strongly agreed that their lessons or training sessions were well taught.

UCU regional officer Anne O'Sullivan said: "Despite the difficult times faced by the college recently, UCU and Unison members are determined to keep putting their students first and working hard on their behalf.

Refreshed

"Students will benefit from a new impetus for improvement driven by a refreshed management team led by Jo Lomax, the interim principal.

"Our members look forward to working collaboratively with the incoming leadership and management team in the interests of all the college's students."