Writtle University College is celebrating after retaining its ‘good’ Ofsted rating.

A report by Ofsted inspectors said it “continues to be good” and students “receive very good support from teachers and assessors to help them be successful in their chosen subject”.

Vice-chancellor Professor Tim Middleton said they were “very pleased” but the university’s ambition was to be outstanding.

“Retaining a ‘Good’ rating emphasises the quality of education that Further Education students can expect when studying with us at Writtle.

“Being the only specialist, land-based provider in Essex, and the only land-based provider in East Anglia graded ‘good’, we are able to provide a unique learning experience to our students.

“We have seen a growth of 24% in our applications for our college courses this year and this reflects the fact that students and parents have the confidence in the course and career they are choosing.”