A monitoring visit by Ofsted in March 2026 found clear progress in learner achievement, support for vulnerable students, careers guidance and work experience provision.
Inspectors reported that more students are now gaining qualifications, with increasing numbers achieving or exceeding their target grades.
The report credits improvements in teaching, stronger tracking of progress and earlier intervention when learners begin to fall behind.
Support for students with special educational needs and disabilities was also highlighted as an area of progress.
Inspectors noted enhanced wellbeing services, more personalised learning pathways and a more inclusive curriculum, helping vulnerable learners make sustained progress.
Work experience opportunities have expanded significantly, with around seventy five per cent of learners with high needs now accessing placements.
Employers are supporting students through interview coaching and mock interviews before placements begin.
Careers guidance was another area singled out for improvement.
Students are now benefiting from closer employer links, skills competitions and career-focused tutorials aimed at improving progression into apprenticeships, university and employment.
Leah Palmer, Principal and CEO of New College Swindon, said:
“We are incredibly proud that the progress we have made since our last inspection has been recognised. This reflects the dedication of our staff, the commitment of our learners and the strength of our partnerships with employers and stakeholders.”
She added:
“While we are pleased with this outcome, we remain focused on continuing to embed and sustain these improvements to ensure every learner achieves their full potential and has a great experience at New College Swindon.”
The monitoring visit also found that leaders have strengthened systems to track student progress, allowing staff to step in more quickly when support is needed.
Improvements to governance and reporting systems were also identified.
While Ofsted said there is still more work to do, inspectors acknowledged that the college is moving in the right direction.
