RUSKIN Mill College in Horsley has seen something of a renaissance since its last Ofsted inspection.

The specialist college has achieved a new rating of Good, rising two levels from its inspection in April last year, which saw the college drop to Inadequate.

Principal of the College Dan Alipaz, who took over in November 2014, praised everyone involved at Ruskin Mill for the quick turnaround.

“Our rejuvenation in the last year has been a real success sand our report in May was very pleasing,” he said.

“To jump up two places in Ofsted report is almost unheard of - it’s been down to the immensely hard work of everyone at the college.

“We have a new team and a new ethos, and this has proven hugely significant in producing positive outcome for our students.”

Mr Alipaz went on to highlight two particular areas that had Oftsed noted had improved greatly – Leadership and Management and Safeguarding.

“The main objective for the 2014 and 15 year was to unite the college with a clear short-term vision and redevelop it in order to better facilitate each student’s progression towards their long term goals.

“I think we’ve been very successful in doing so, and my aim for the future is for the college to meet all the needs of learners, employers and the wider community, and continue to improve in the coming years.”

Ruskin Mill College, which sits on 154 acres of land, is one of four specialist colleges operated by Ruskin Mill Trust offering both day and residential provision.

The Practical Skills Therapeutic Education method draws its inspiration from the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, John Ruskin and William Morris.

Mr Alipaz explained how the “unique” practical skills curriculum provides a range of subjects which give students the opportunity to learn through doing “real life purposeful activities”.

“Our pupils learn in a way that suits their needs and skills, creating a real engagement with the land and the environment,” he said.

Classes offered at the college include textiles, print and papermaking, woodwork, forging, pottery, forestry, animal husbandry and horticulture.

In addition to the success with Ofsted, Mr Alipaz said there had been a substantial increase in the achievement of qualifications in relation to the two previous years.

He highlighted one of the new initiatives at the college was an increased Performing Arts program, which would include a series of performances driven by students, staff and internationally acclaimed artists.

“We aim for our students to have a real relationship with the wider society in Stroud, through both social enterprise and community based activities and projects,” he said.

In addition, the work at the college will be showcased in an annual arts and crafts festival, which will be launched next summer.

For further information please contact Ann Shutte - ann.shutte@rmc.rmt.org or 01453837501.