8th April 2025
In a huge boost for learners, businesses and rural education in the South West, Bicton College near Budleigh Salterton in Devon, Duchy College Stoke Climsland and Rosewarne in Cornwall, are officially ‘Outstanding’.
Following a week-long inspection by Ofsted, a glowing report praised the colleges on their commitment to “exceptional learning opportunities”, “highly effective partnerships to meet the local training needs” and learners who are “highly motivated to learn in aspirational environments”.
Principal and CEO of CCG, the group behind Bicton College and Duchy College, Rob Bosworth, expressed immense pride in the achievement. 
“This is a historic moment for our colleges, reflecting the relentless dedication of our staff, the ambition of our learners and the invaluable support of our partners,” he said.
“As Devon’s land-based college, Bicton is at the heart of its communities, delivering high-quality education and training through strong partnerships. This Ofsted report belongs to everyone in Devon and beyond, not just the college. It highlights the world-class opportunities we provide and the life-changing impact of our work. Businesses and local stakeholders can be confident in achieving their goals and ambitions with us as we help drive economic growth in Devon.”
Rob continued: “We are a group consisting of place-based, local colleges, and this Ofsted report belongs to everyone in Cornwall and Devon, not just the college. It highlights how our colleges are at the very heart of the communities we serve, and reflects how hard we work in partnership to deliver Outstanding outcomes. Businesses and local stakeholders can be confident they will achieve their goals and ambitions with us, as we transform lives and help drive economic growth in Cornwall and Devon.”
Inspectors praised the college, noting the “excellent learning spaces that staff have created contribute to learners and apprentices being highly motivated”, while providing “an inclusive, welcoming and caring environment”.
“Leaders successfully and effectively use partnerships to meet training needs,” the report revealed.
The report also commended the college’s ability to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive, making a tangible impact on the region’s workforce and economy.
Ed Parrish, Head of Land-based Operations, emphasised the strength of the college’s agricultural and land-based provision.
“Bicton College has a long-standing reputation for excellence in land-based education, and this Outstanding grading reaffirms our commitment to delivering world-class training for the next generation of farmers, horticulturists and environmental specialists. Our industry-led curriculum ensures that students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an evolving sector, and we are proud to play a key role in shaping the future of land-based industries,” he said.
The report also commended the college’s ability to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive, making a tangible impact on the region’s workforce and economy.
Darren Evans, Head of Bicton Campus, highlighted the college’s deep-rooted connection with the community.
“This achievement reflects the passion, dedication and hard work of everyone at Bicton College. Our focus has always been on providing the highest quality education and training, and this recognition shows the strength of our partnerships with industry and the wider community,” he said.
Venetia Summers, Head of Duchy College Stoke Climsland, reflected on the remarkable progress the college has made in recent years, which Ofsted highlighted in its report.
“This Outstanding result highlights the incredible journey we have been on as a college,” she said. “Just a few years ago, we set out to transform the learner experience, working tirelessly to raise standards, build strong industry partnerships and create an environment where everyone can thrive.”
Venetia added: “To have Ofsted recognise this turnaround is immensely rewarding. It reflects the dedication of our staff, the ambition of our learners and the unwavering support of our local community. We are incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and even more excited for the future.”
Luke Bazeley, Head of Duchy College Rosewarne, emphasised the incredible transformation the college has undergone over the past decade, a journey that Ofsted has recognised, valued and rewarded.
“The evolution of Duchy College Rosewarne over the last ten years has been nothing short of extraordinary. We have worked tirelessly to create an environment where students thrive, where businesses find skilled professionals and where the community feels supported and empowered. This Outstanding grading from Ofsted reflects the dedication of our staff and the ambition of our learners,” Luke explained.
Mark Wardle, Deputy CEO, said he was thrilled that inspectors noted teachers are “subject specialists with relevant and substantial industry knowledge and expertise”, who use this “very well to enrich learning”.
“As Ofsted witnessed, our teachers provide exceptional training, ensuring students develop the skills employers need while gaining invaluable personal and professional experiences,” Mark said.
Ofsted also recognised the vital role of governors, highlighting their “highly ambitious and passionate contribution to the colleges”.
Dr Patrick Newberry, Chair of Cornwall College Group Board of Governors, said the recognition “confirms the vital role Cornwall College Group plays in transforming lives and driving economic growth”.
“The Governors could not be prouder of what has been achieved and, on a personal note, I would like to thank my fellow Governors and the college’s staff for their commitment and dedication, which was noted by the Ofsted team. We look forward to ensuring the college continues to provide outstanding opportunities for learners, apprentices and the wider communities that we serve.”
You can access the full Ofsted report here.
Cornwall College Group consists of Cornwall College Camborne and St Austell, Duchy College Rosewarne and Stoke Climsland, Falmouth Marine School, Cornwall College University Centres at Eden Project and Newquay, Tournament Golf College at St Mellion Resort and Portugal, Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre and Bicton College in Devon.
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