Bolton College in Greater Manchester has welcomed the publication of its latest Ofsted inspection report on 5 March 2026, highlighting both successful areas and parts of the college that need to get better. The inspection, which took place in January 2026, confirmed that the college is keeping students safe and doing well with adult learning and apprenticeships.
However, Ofsted inspectors found that education for 16 to 18-year-olds needs to improve, specifically regarding teaching consistency and progress in GCSE English and maths. The report also noted that student attendance and the effectiveness of personal tutorials are areas that require more attention.
According to Bolton College, an accelerated improvement plan is already in place to address these issues. Principal and Chief Executive Liam Sloan stated that they are working to “ensure students meet the standards expected by the local community and employers.”
Despite the challenges with younger learners, the report praised the college for its support of students with high needs and its work in providing the specific skills needed in the local area. The college leadership has accepted the findings and recently appointed Kate Flood as the new Chair of the Corporation to help oversee the necessary changes.
