Proud to be rated Outstanding by Ofsted!

We're thrilled that Education Partnership North East has received an Outstanding rating across the board in our latest Ofsted inspection. This exceptional recognition marks a significant milestone in the group's remarkable journey.

A large team of inspectors met with students, staff, college leaders, employers, and community partners during a rigorous enhanced inspection visit where they extensively assessed the performance and quality of provision across all campuses in Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form College.

We received the highest rating across every area, including 16-18-year-old provision, apprenticeship delivery and adult education. The group was also found to be outstanding in its delivery of high needs support, the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, behaviour and attitudes and was further assessed as 'strong', the highest rating available, for contribution to skills (October 2024).

NC Ofsted Outstanding Social Square

Ellen Thinnesen, Chief Executive of Education Partnership North East, said: "I can with all certainty say, our achievements are the product of many great people, who are deeply passionate for the North East and the local communities served by our colleges".

"Firstly, to our people, our inspiring workforce (past and present), today's success is the product of your hard work, your determination, self-belief and courage. To see inspectors moved to tears at the life changing work you deliver every day, was simply remarkable".  

"To civic, employer and community partners who are part of our rich and diverse ecosystem. It really does take a community! You have enabled all our colleges to aim high, reach beyond our immediate boundaries and to make an outstanding difference. Thank you."

Find out why at our next Open Event