A COLLEGE in Winchester has been given top marks from the education watchdog. 

Ofsted said that students living in halls of residence at Sparsholt Campus enjoy an 'outstanding' residential experience.

The three-day inspection, carried out in May, found the college’s provision to be outstanding in all areas.

Ofsted reported on the excellent relationships between residential learners and staff.

The report said: “Wardens know each student well and there are healthy and respectful relationships between students and staff. The residential areas have a convivial feel, with students joining in each other’s games or socialising with their friends.

READ MORE: Hampshire people react to Liz Truss being named as new Prime Minister

“Students share their views and ideas in a variety of ways, such as in student surveys and by student representation at governors’ meetings.

"Their views have resulted in changes such as later curfews, LGBTQ+ corner, neurodiverse club and craft club. This has provided safe spaces for students to relax and engage with peers.” Even the staff at the Campus eateries contribute to the great experience of living on Sparsholt’s countryside campus: “The catering staff know the students well and contribute to the students’ wellbeing through the positive relationships that they have with them.”

Liz Wilson, assistant principal at the college, which also has a campus in Andover, said: “It is wonderful that Ofsted have recognised the hard work of the teams supporting our residential students. At Sparsholt College Group we strive to ensure that the transition from school to college is planned and supported and that students have input from our expert teams to help them be happy and successful whilst living at college.”

Principal Julie Milburn said: “This is an excellent report from Ofsted which is testament to the outstanding work delivered by our residential team of wardens, student support and wellbeing teams, and academic staff, it really is a team effort.   Residential learners enjoy and thrive here and increase their knowledge, confidence and independence thanks to our commitment to supporting each learner throughout their unique journey with us."