Report has college grinning like a Cheshire 'Rcat'

ROTHERHAM’S biggest college has emerged from funding worries with its first 'good' rating from education watchdog Ofsted in 21 years.

Rotherham College of Arts and Technology (RCAT) was given an overall rating of “good” and two of its departments — construction and visual and performing arts landed the top mark of “outstanding”.

It is the first time the college has secured a good rating in the 21 years since it split from local authority control in 1992.

The inspection last month followed the unveiling of new science labs, beauty salons and theatre workshops last October and the £7 million Wentworth Building a year earlier.

Gill Alton, who arrived as principal and chief executive in 2010, said she was delighted. “This brilliant outcome is not just great for the college, but a further massive boost for education in Rotherham and efforts to take the town forward.

“We want to give Rotherham’s people and employers access to an outstanding college, improving the opportunities and economic prospects for all'” she said.

Ofsted also recognised the impact of £15 million of investment which the college has made, resulting in “improved facilities and learning resources to benefit students” and complemented the college on the environment on its campuses in Rotherham and Dinnington, saying “staff and students show high levels of respect for each other”.