A SOUTHAMPTON college which was urged to improve has now made “significant progress”, watchdogs said.

Ofsted inspectors have praised the improvements made at Itchen College.

It comes as in 2018 the college was rated as “requires improvement”.

At the time inspectors found that “too many” A-level students left their course early while many of them had been on courses that “underperformed for too long”.

They had also said that students lacked ” precise information” on what they needed to do to improve.

But in their recent visit to the college Ofsted watchgods found that several improvements have now been made.

In their latest report they said: “Leaders and managers introduced

changes to the management of the curriculum that have led to improvements in teaching practice and, consequently, students’ achievement. Most A-level students now complete their courses.Leaders and managers have taken effective action to ensure more students remain on their courses and achieve their qualifications.”

They said teachers make sure students develop the knowledge and understanding they need.

The report also reads: “Leaders and managers have worked closely and effectively with teaching staff to improve the quality of feedback to students. Teachers now provide useful and detailed information to students about what they have done well and what they need to do to improve further. Students feel very well supported.”

Principal Alex Scott said to be pleased that inspectors recognised the work done over the past years.

He said: “This outcome is a result of the hard work of our staff and students and gives us a solid platform from which to build future success.”

Cllr Darren Paffey, cabinet member for aspiration, children and lifelong learning at Southampton City Council congratulated staff and students at the college.

He said: “Itchen College has a valuable role to play as part of the strong post-16 provision and Further Education offer that we’re keen to support in the city – one that meets the needs of all our young people and adults to gain the qualifications and skills needed for fulfilling lives and rewarding careers, and that underpins Southampton’s economic growth.”