The visit formed part of ongoing discussions about what colleges need in order to effectively support their students, particularly those with additional needs, and to contribute to future policy development.
The visit followed a virtual roundtable held earlier this month by the Children’s Commissioner. It was attended by our Deputy CEO and Executive Principal, Asfa Sohail, alongside other college leaders. This discussion focused on the findings from its census of schools and colleges, which highlighted significant national challenges around attendance, mental health and the growing pastoral responsibilities placed on education providers.
During today’s visit the guests met with senior leaders, staff and students to understand how the College is addressing these challenges locally. The College showcased its extensive SEND provision and approaches to improving engagement.
Asfa Sohail, Deputy CEO and Executive Principal, said:
“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to showcase our students, our dedicated staff and the work we are doing to support young people with increasingly complex needs. Today’s visit reinforces the importance of placing colleges at the centre of national conversations about inclusion, wellbeing and post‑16 opportunity - and we are pleased to be part of this."
The Children’s Commissioner is expected to publish further college‑specific findings in the coming months, informed partly by the insights shared through both the roundtable and the visit to London South East Colleges.