News / 20 Jan 2025
Leeds Arts University celebrates Ofsted result
Extended Diploma in Creative Practice
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
We are delighted to share our latest Ofsted report highlighting that both the quality of education and personal development of our students is ‘Outstanding’ with an overall ‘Good’ for our further education provision. This includes our Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, and Extended Diploma in Creative Practice courses.
Throughout the report there are many positive comments about the University including how our tutors use their expertise as artists and designers to plan a curriculum which gives students an insight into a broad range of creative disciplines, supporting them to develop new skills and to grow as independent creative practitioners.
The report also highlights our “highly productive and well-resourced studios”, in which our students are able to thrive. There was recognition of the efforts made by the University to ensure students understand the opportunities available to them following their studies, and are supported by tutors and specialist career advisors to make these important decisions. Live briefs and client commissions help our students develop the skills and experience they need to progress into higher education or to gain employment in the creative sector.
The inspector also noted how well the University supports students’ personal development, with tutors effectively weaving this into their teaching, providing support where needed and allowing students to become more independent as they progress. They recognised the neurodiversity training staff received, and how well they use this to provide individualised support, contributing to a highly inclusive culture in which students make very good progress and achieve well.
“This is a tremendous result for our further education provision. I am delighted with the well-deserved recognition of the combined efforts that go into developing an environment in which our students can thrive. This is a very positive outcome which is a testament to the commitment of all our staff and students, and confirms our belief that Leeds Arts University is a place where students are supported to reach their own creative potential.”
Professor Simone Wonnacott, Vice-Chancellor
“I was incredibly proud to showcase the amazing work our students produce to the Ofsted inspectors. I am thrilled that the report highlights the exceptional effort our course teams put into creating an outstanding teaching and learning experience through a varied curriculum; provision of specialist teaching, strong support, and a range of opportunities for students to grow as individual artists and designers ready for their next steps."
Katie Holmes, Further Education Director