Release Potential is excited to share that we’ve reached a new milestone and officially achieved a ‘Strong Standard’ rating across the board in our recent Ofsted inspection.
Our leadership approach to adult education was described as ‘innovative and pioneering’, our embedded culture of inclusion and our teaching practices praised, and our philosophy that means ‘learners are celebrated, cherished and nurtured’ was recognised.
This follows the recent four day inspection of Release Potential in July 2026, where we achieved this grade across all categories, spanning leadership, curriculum and teaching, inclusion and development. The rating officially signifies excellent and consistent work that exceeds expectations, on a national level.
This recognition is a milestone in our journey as a training provider of adult learning. It reflects our commitment and mission to support and deliver adult training programmes that transform lives, impacts society, and supports regional growth.
OFSTED INSPECTION HIGHLIGHTS
Leadership and governance
Our core mission was highlighted in the inspection report: ‘Leaders have a very clear vision to provide opportunities for unemployed adults to gain and sustain jobs in the Civil Service and public sector.’
The inspectors appreciated our powerful core belief that it’s a privilege to support adults find valuable and fulfilling work, that ultimately shapes their future. Comments in the report include ‘Leaders have established a culture of valuing the privilege to work with unemployed adults, often with multiple barriers to learning and far from the job market.’ and ‘This philosophy is translated throughout the organisation, and learners are celebrated, cherished and nurtured’.
Following an intensive review, the inspectors commented that ‘Leaders are innovative and pioneering in their approach to adult education.’ and ‘They recognise that learners not only need useful qualifications and skills to gain employment, but also to know that they are valued and capable.’
The report highlighted that ‘Governors bring a wealth of expertise and experience.’
Our established rigorous quality procedures were recognised: ‘Leaders have established an indefatigable culture of continuous improvement. They are tenacious in their pursuit.’
Inclusion: Opportunities for all
‘Inclusion’ is a new Ofsted category. Inspectors praised our inclusion approach, practice and impact.
The report highlighted our passionate commitment to inclusion, commenting that it ‘is embedded in the culture of the organisation and its practices’ and due to a very carefully planned approach ‘leaders establish a supportive culture in which learners feel welcome and grow in self-belief. ‘
It was recognised that learners gain on-programme inclusion support and ‘staff work tirelessly to ensure that learners with barriers to learning have the same opportunities to participate in work placements…and ultimately in gaining employment.’
Gaye Hutchinson, CEO at Release Potential, commented ‘It is a founding belief at Release Potential that learning and employment opportunities should be available for all. It’s incredibly important to us that we support all learners in their journey from programme to employment. This has been embedded in our approach and practice as a training provider from day one, and we’re passionate about the impact it makes.’
Partnerships
The inspectors recognised our powerful partnerships that provide our learners with invaluable pathways and opportunities to employment. The report highlighted that our leadership ‘sustain strong partnerships with stakeholders, who champion these courses and support leaders to develop opportunities for learners, including excellent work experience, events such as JobFest and large-scale recruitment drives in the Civil Service.’
The report highlighted our commitment to contributing to the success of the region. With focus on regional upskilling in particular as well as a positive impact on employment levels. Inspectors commented in the report that our ‘leaders have a deep understanding of the needs of the region and weave this skilfully into their programmes.’
Teaching and Provision
Following a rigorous inspection of our course programmes and delivery, the inspectors commented that our ‘experienced and enthusiastic tutors use a wide range of highly effective teaching strategies’
Following interviews with our learners, the inspectors commented ‘From the start of their courses, learners are galvanised and grow in confidence due to the carefully planned curriculum created by leaders and tutors.‘
Learner Impact
The report highlighted the success of our programme support and positive impact. Inspectors praised that ‘Learners develop a wide range of important skills for the workplace…They grow in confidence and self-esteem and are prepared fully to move into employment and build their careers’ and ‘Learners become more determined and resilient in their pursuit of gaining employment and forging a career’
Gaye Hutchinson, CEO at Release Potential, commented:
‘The success of the Ofsted inspection is a reflection and a testament of our commitment to making a difference to people’s lives and individual life chances. We’re celebrating this milestone today with heartfelt thanks and appreciation for our valued partners and governors, incredible staff and of course, our amazing learners, that inspire us everyday.’
Read the full report – https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50310160