Weston College continues to be recognised for its highly inclusive approach and innovative practice in SEND and has been successful in continuing to lead the sector for the next three years in partnership with the Education Training Foundation, as a delivery partner on behalf of the Department for Education’s Universal SEND services.

In 2019 Weston College was named as one of the three National Centres for Excellence in SEND, alongside City College Norwich and Derby College and over the last two and a half years, a powerful partnership has been established to share and innovate best practice. Each centre delivers a different theme, with Weston College focussing on ‘people’, supporting organisations to create an inclusive culture, creating a motivational career structure that enable staff to specialise in SEND and professionalise the provision.

This extended tenure means that Weston College will continue to support a step change across the FE sector, improving inclusivity for young people with SEND through their leadership hub and communities of practice, collaborating with NASEN and the Autism Education Trust to join together our outstanding work to support and develop inclusive practice from early years through to post 16.

Dr Paul Phillips CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, said: “To retain our status as a Centre for Excellence in SEND is a huge honour. This announcement will enable us to continue the momentum we have gathered proactively informing the sector, sharing good practice, and developing highly innovative and successful provision for all learners.

“We’ve always taken great pride in the quality of our provision and the development of our specialist provision for learner with SEND. The College places enablement and personalisation at the heart of its strategic plans, creating a highly inclusive ethos and culture.

“Continuing as a Centre of Excellence in SEND in partnership with the Education Training Foundation, City College Norwich and Derby College will provide the opportunity to continue on this journey of impact, entrepreneurship and inclusivity ensuring this led from the top of the organisation to ensure no learners are left behind.”