Aspire Issue 8 Feb 25

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

OUR OUTCOMES FOR OUR ESOL PROVISION ARE EXCEPTIONAL, WITH A REMARKABLE 96% ACHIEVEMENT RATE

Preston College continues to lead the way in providing exceptional ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) programmes, which have earned it a reputation as one of the top providers in the country. With an impressive 5,771 enrolments in the 2023/24 academic year, our ESOL provision places us in the top 2% of providers nationally, demonstrating the significant impact our courses have on individuals seeking to improve their English language skills and secure a brighter future. Our ESOL programmes are designed to offer substantive learning, enabling those with little or no English to successfully progress into technical learning or directly into employment. This approach helps bridge the language gap for many learners, offering them the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a wide range of settings. Whether aiming for further study or to gain employment, our ESOL students are taught the essential tools to succeed. Preston College is also proud to have been the first institution nationally to be recognised as a ‘College of Sanctuary,’ reflecting our commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers. We continue to work closely with these groups, helping our students navigate the complexities of settling into a new country and preparing them for the workplace. Our dedicated staff understand the unique challenges faced by asylum seekers and refugees, offering tailored support to ensure their learning journey is as smooth and successful as possible. Our focus on high-quality teaching and learning has resulted in remarkable success, with over 95% of ESOL students progressing to the next level of education, securing employment, or achieving greater independence. This exceptional progression rate highlights the impact of our ESOL programmes in not only enhancing language skills but also in nurturing broader life skills that enable students to make meaningful strides

in their personal and professional lives. Furthermore, our ESOL provision boasts an outstanding achievement rate of 96%, a testament to the dedication and expertise of our teaching staff, as well as the commitment and hard work of our students. These results place us among the very best in the country, with Preston College ranking third nationally in the Qualification Achievement Rate league tables for achievement rates, out of 156 training providers. We proudly champion Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) as core values that shape our teaching approach and the College environment. By breaking down barriers to learning and promoting an inclusive atmosphere, we ensure that all our students, regardless of their background or circumstances, have the opportunity to succeed. Our ESOL provision is just one example of this commitment, offering a safe and supportive space where individuals can learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. As we continue to welcome students from all walks of life, Preston College remains dedicated to providing outstanding educational opportunities, creating a sense of belonging, and helping individuals to progress in ways that transform their lives. Whether through language skills, job readiness, or academic achievement, our ESOL provision remains a vital pathway to success for thousands of students each year. With a steadfast focus on excellence and inclusion, Preston College will continue to be a leader in delivering life-changing opportunities for students of all backgrounds.

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