A college in Walthamstow has been praised as somewhere students "flourish" after receiving an 'outstanding' rating by Ofsted.
Waltham Forest College joins a group of 15 general further education colleges nationwide that hold the education regulator's highest rating.
The college impressed a team of 12 inspectors who conducted an in-depth inspection, talking with students, parents, employers and stakeholders to assess the college's performance and provision quality.
Ofsted inspectors highlighted the college's quality of teaching, saying that "learners and apprentices flourish in an environment where they experience excellent teaching and training".
The inspection team also highlighted that "learners with high needs have life-changing experiences" at the college.
A particular strong point inspectors found was the college’s swift and flexible curriculum, developed in close coordination with employers and key stakeholders.
This curriculum was found to meet local, regional, and national skills needs.
The Ofsted report said: "Senior leaders and governors provide exceptional leadership and management to widen participation.
"They work tirelessly to ensure learners and apprentices, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, receive consistently high-quality teaching and training."
Janet Gardner, principal and chief executive of Waltham Forest College, said: "I am delighted Ofsted has recognised the exceptional student experience at Waltham Forest College and how this transforms the lives of thousands of students each year.
"The whole staff team work relentlessly in their drive to support our students and ensure they achieve the very best outcomes to progress.
"The strong collaborations with employers, partners and stakeholders further supports the overall experience and ensures the college continues to meet local, regional, and national skills’ needs."
The college has also been recognised as a Good Work Employer - the first college in London to gain this status.
Among the college's awards are the Mayor of London’s quality kitemark for six areas of provision, as well as designation as a World Skills national training centre for excellence.
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