A college in Barking and Dagenham has been rated as 'good' following an Ofsted inspection.

The Adult College Barking and Dagenham got a visit from inspectors on December 4 and 7, where it was judged to create a "calm and warm environment, with a strong culture of respect and collaboration".

The college was praised by Ofsted for personal development and the work done to develop learners' behaviours and attitudes.

The quality of education, and leadership and management were also found to be good.

Councillor Sade Bright, Barking and Dagenham Council's cabinet member for employment, skills and aspiration, said: "Congratulations to everyone.

"This is a great Ofsted result: a good testimony to an excellent team.

"I am extremely pleased that the work of the college staff to empower and increase the skills and lives of our residents has been recognised in this way.

"Well done to the staff and the learners for this endorsement."

The inspectors also praised the English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) staff for having a "forensic understanding of their area", as well as the maths courses for preparing learners really well for exams.

The report, published on February 27, highlighted the college's well-planned and broad curriculum with comprehensive support through clear internal pathways.

Learners benefited from a wide range of enrichment activities and strong links with the council job shops, inspectors found.

The college was particularly praised for its role in meeting local needs and raising aspirations.

Its emerging partnership with Coventry University London, which has brought higher education to the local community, was commended by inspectors.

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Evelyn Carpenter, chair of the college’s advisory board, said: "The Work & Skills Board are grateful for the college’s commitment to the residents of Barking and Dagenham.

"It is heart-warming to see how the positive inspection process made staff reflect on their own practice."

Simon Beer, college principal, said: "Every single member of the college team, teaching and support staff, should feel proud of the part they have played.

"The college has gone through a fair amount of change in recent times and so to secure such a positive verdict is doubly impressive."