Ofsted Inspection

We were delighted to welcome Ofsted to IVC this week for a graded inspection- a team of five inspectors over two days. We aren’t yet able to share the outcome of the inspection, but will be very excited to do so once the report is released! The inspectors were hugely positive about the College, its unique ethos and approach, the very high standards of teaching and the diligence and commitment of pupils. They particularly praised the impact of the MYP in ensuring that there is an ambitious and rigorous curriculum in place across every subject area, and the exceptionally high standards of work that pupils produce regardless of their ability. We also received very positive feedback about our approach to relational practice and behaviour, the levels of tolerance and respect shown by pupils and the way in which they are proud to be themselves. They recognised the incredible array of personal development opportunities, and the ‘exemplary’ approach to character education, which is underpinned by our IB ethos.

The feedback from staff, parents and students shone through in the surveys, and contributed to very positive judgements around leadership and management. They particularly noted our very strong, shared vision for education, and the powerful impact this is having, and the ways in which our commitment to CPD and flexible working are impacting staff wellbeing, retention and the standards of education delivered.

Our staff body are very tired but exceptionally proud of the feedback- and we can’t wait to share it with you in more detail when the time comes. We are also incredibly grateful for all of the cards, messages and good wishes received!

Year 9 Options Evening

On Wednesday as we said goodbye to Ofsted, we had families in for our Year 9 Options Evening. It was great to showcase the wide range of subjects on offer at GCSE, and to see the House team engaging with families and discussing different possibilities! We are grateful to our staff for supporting the event, and also to our KS4 students who came along to promote their favourite subjects!

SPP Production

On Wednesday afternoon, families and staff gathered to watch our Specialist Post-16 Provision (SPP) students put on their performance for their BTEC Performing Arts. I was unable to attend due to being in the Ofsted meeting, but was lucky enough to be able to see a snippet of the dress rehearsal. Mr Bullen and all of the staff in SPP did an incredible job supporting the students to put on their production, which including acting, dancing and even puppetry! The students really shone, showed great confidence and were able to film the piece for their BTEC submission.

Apprenticeship Fair

On Thursday we welcomed over 800 students from across the county to visit us at the Apprenticeship Fair, which was hosted by IVC on behalf of Form the Future. We had over 20 employers with us, from ARM and Zeiss, to CRC, the police and Cambridge University Hospitals. Form the Future were also running a range of workshops on topics such as employability. As the hosts, we were very lucky to be able to provide access for large numbers of students from IVC, to ensure they made the most of a great opportunity.

Author Talk

On Thursday a group of students visited Stephen Perse School for an author talk with A.F. Steadman, author of the best-selling Skandar series. This was a reward trip for pupils who had completed their silver, gold or platinum bookmarks. A great time was had by all!

Message from ELA

As a group of schools, Eastern Learning Alliance is looking at ways in which to grow its network of support.  We understand who makes up our internal network, (our employees, volunteers, governors and trustees) and are now looking to expand our understanding of our external network within our local communities.  We are therefore reaching out to all parents and carers to ask if you would like to share your information with us.  We would like to know if you as an individual would like to make up our ‘network map’ or if you run/work for a company that would be interested.  Additionally, if you know someone not already associated with the school, please do encourage them to make contact.

We are not asking for donations or looking for any specific support, but are seeking to better understand those in our communities who may be willing to provide such support at a later date, or with whom we can make contact for specific issues.  You may just be interested in the work Eastern Learning Alliance does, want to speak positively about us, have time and willingness to help or have a large network yourself you would like to connect us to.  If you would like to know more, or would just like to send through your contact information, please email Jenna Bickley, .