The South Hampshire College Group, which was formed in 2023 after Eastleigh College, Fareham College and Southampton College combined, was recognised by the education watchdog for its “strong contribution to meeting skills needs”, “highly knowledgeable teachers”, and for “raising the quality of education for learners and apprentices”.
The inspection, which took place from April 29 to May 2, 2025, reviewed the organisation’s three colleges, as well as its Centre of Excellence in Engineering, Manufacturing and Advanced Skills Training (CEMAST) and its Civil Engineering Training Centre (CETC).
Both of the centres are based at Lee-on-the-Solent.
Special commendation was given to the college group’s skills contribution, which was said to be formed through a close working partnership with employers and stakeholders.
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Andrew Kaye, chief executive officer of South Hampshire College Group, said: “I’m delighted to see the hard work of students and colleagues at South Hampshire College Group recognised through this Ofsted report.
“The report’s positive endorsement of the good quality of education is a testament to the commitment of those who make South Hampshire College Group an amazing place to learn and work.
“I’m pleased the report recognises the strong contribution the college makes to meeting skills needs and the instrumental role the college plays in shaping and advancing local skills improvement planning.”
The Ofsted inspection also praised the quality of teaching, the strategic sequencing of training programmes, and the ambitious investments in resources.
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The benefits of this were outlined in the report, which said young students were motivated to learn, adult students were empowered and confident, and apprentices valued the expert advice and training they received.
Anoushka Ottley, executive director of business and partnerships at South Hampshire College Group, said: “We are proud to be recognised by Ofsted for making a strong contribution to skills.
“At South Hampshire College Group, we are firmly committed to addressing local, regional, and national skills priorities through strong partnerships with our stakeholders.”
Group principal Pete Joddrell added: “As a college group, we warmly welcome this report and are proud to be rated ‘good’ in all eight judgement areas.”
