Derwent Training Association is proud to announce the results of its latest Ofsted inspection, confirming that the specialist training provider meets expected national standards across its leadership, apprenticeship provision, and safeguarding.

‘Expected standard’ is just that – it means “the provider is doing everything that it should be doing. It’s a high standard, to make sure learners are receiving everything they need and deserve.”

Following the inspection conducted by His Majesty’s Inspectors (HMIs), Ofsted recognised Derwent Training’s strong commitment to providing high-quality professional services and engineering apprenticeships tailored to regional and national skills needs.

Uncompromised Focus on Safeguarding

The report highlights that “Safeguarding standards are met,” praising leaders and governance for establishing an open, proactive culture where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Inspectors noted that learners feel safe and are well-supported, particularly when navigating high-risk, practical engineering environments where strict workplace discipline and health and safety requirements are rigorously maintained.

Outstanding Apprentice Support & Achievement

Derwent Training’s dedication to learner progress and pastoral support shines throughout the report:

• 100% First-Time Pass Rate: For three consecutive years (2022/23 to 2024/25), 100% of apprentices who completed their final endpoint assessment passed on their first attempt, well above the national average.
• High Distinction Rates: A high proportion of apprentices achieve top merit or distinction grades, producing practical work to rigorous industry standards and zero-tolerance measurements.
• Strong Career Outcomes: Most apprentices remain in employment post-qualification, with many earning swift promotions or expanding their responsibilities.
• Proactive Redundancy Support: Inspectors commended leaders for implementing fast-track support systems for apprentices facing workplace redundancy, significantly reducing drop-out rates and keeping learners on track to qualify.

Effective Leadership & Continuous Improvement

Ofsted recognised the proactive work undertaken by Derwent Training’s leadership team to maintain high educational standards and invest in staff development:

• High-Quality Staff Training: Leaders provide comprehensive development, ensuring industry-recruited trainers achieve formal teaching qualifications, attend specialist webinars, and participate in annual staff development weeks grounded in modern learning theory.
• Investing in Learning Environments: Leaders continue to upgrade the Malton training centre—combining heavy-duty industrial machinery (such as lathes, milling machines, and a new compact universal hydraulic steelworker) with upgraded lighting, modern Wi-Fi connectivity, and refreshed learning spaces.

Claire Gavaghan, CEO of Derwent Training, commented:

“This report reflects the hard work, ambition, and discipline of our apprentices, as well as the tireless efforts of our team and employer partners. We take immense pride in maintaining high standards, fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and equipping our learners with the high-level skills needed to thrive in their careers.”

Read our report https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/33/51531

To learn more about Derwent Training’s apprenticeship programmes, CPD opportinuties and facility hire, visit www.derwenttraining.co.uk