Ofsted praises Team Domenica’s ‘Culture of Inclusion’ in first inspection
Team Domenica is thrilled to announce we’ve been graded as ‘strong’ in two areas: Inclusion and Participation and Development, in our first Ofsted report from their visit in June 2026.
Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills, also graded us as reaching the ‘expected standard’ in safeguarding, leadership and governance, achievement, and curriculum and teaching, which is a great reflection on our culture and values and rare for a new provider.
“This is such a fantastic achievement for our first full inspection, and we all feel very proud. Alongside high employment outcomes, we are thrilled to be able to evidence that candidates on our education programme at Team Domenica thrive in both life and work.”
Lisa Campbell-Squires, Director of Education and Strategy
Team Domenica is now an independent Specialist Further Education centre after previously working in partnership with other education providers. This means Ofsted, who came to observe our learners and staff in June, will inspect our college regularly.
Culture of inclusion at its heart
The report praises Team Domenica for our culture of inclusion saying, “Leaders have created a culture with inclusion at its heart and with shared high aspirations for all learners. They are passionate in their belief that, with the right support, everyone can develop the knowledge, skills and confidence that they need to succeed.”
In addition, we were rated ‘strong’ for participation and development, with Ofsted praising the hard work and attitude of our candidates, who all have learning disabilities and autism.
The report said: “Learners respond very positively to leaders’ high expectations for them to acquire the skills, values and behaviours essential for success in life and work. Leaders have created a rich and varied curriculum that empowers learners to be themselves, self-advocate and develop high levels of independence.
“Learners are respectful, tolerant and courteous. Learners recognise attendance and punctuality as essential workplace expectations. They consistently arrive on time, ready to learn and work. They are highly motivated, work extremely hard and are professional in the workplace. They justly take pride in what they achieve.”
Team Domenica Chair of Governors, Ann Potterton welcomed the report for supporting Team Domenica’s aims and strengths.
“The Ofsted report for Team Domenica provides strong external validation of the organisation’s core strengths, particularly its inclusive culture, candidate development and employment focus.
“The two ‘strong’ judgements are a significant achievement, while the ‘expected’ judgements confirm that the organisation is meeting the required standard.”
As we move into a new term in our brand-new Education Centre, we are happy that the report highlights Team Domenica’s dedication to providing high-quality teaching, a supportive learning environment, and exceptional student outcomes.
