A KIDLINGTON training college has been given a good Ofsted rating following its first ever inspection.

ACE Training, which currently provides apprenticeships and ‘pre’ apprenticeships for about 160 young people as Introtrain (Ace) Ltd, was also told it was outstanding in terms of learning outcomes.

Operations director Barry Crane said: “We are extremely proud of this Ofsted report.

“To have achieved an outstanding in our outcomes is fantastic.

“We work hard to give young people a supportive and realistic working environment, and we are hoping for even better results in the future.”

The college, in Station Approach, offers trade courses and apprenticeships for 16- to 24-year-olds, and specialises in brickwork and site carpentry.

Some students come straight from school, but it also provides courses with those formerly not in employment, education or training, and those who have been long-term unemployed.

Inspector Martin Hughes said: “Overall success rates are outstanding, with almost every learner successfully completing their training within planned timescales, at both intermediate and advanced levels.”

He described both staff and students as ambitious with high expectations.

To further improve, the college was told to raise teaching, learning and assessment to outstanding, and to place more emphasis on English and maths during vocational training sessions.

The college will hold open days for young people interested in working in the construction industry on Saturday, July 27, from 10am to 2pm, and Saturday, August 17, at the same times.