UTC Portsmouth is pleased to share that it received six ‘Strong’ standards and one ‘Exceptional’ standard in its latest Ofsted inspection, which took place on 18 November 2025. The exceptional standard, awarded for Personal Development and Wellbeing, places the college’s practice among the very best nationally.
Ofsted described UTC Portsmouth as a “vibrant, thriving community” where students develop “incredibly high aspirations”. Inspectors highlighted the transformative impact of the college’s work, particularly for disadvantaged pupils, and praised the effectiveness of its support in ensuring that all students progress to highly ambitious destinations in further education, training or employment.
On achievement, Ofsted inspectors reported that students “progress through the curriculum extremely well”. Although many join having not previously achieved highly, their attainment over time is above national and local averages, with notably strong outcomes in mathematics.
The report praised the college’s highly ambitious STEM-focused curriculum, designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to support their aspirations. Post 16 provision was also commended, with all students progressing to high-quality destinations including Russell Group universities, alongside higher-level apprenticeships and employment.
Inspectors also recognised that the college’s impact extends beyond its own students. Over the last year, UTC Portsmouth worked with more than 18,000 children and young people from other schools, supporting wider engagement in STEM education across the region, while continuing to support former pupils after they leave.
James Doherty, Principal of UTC Portsmouth said:
“We are proud of the culture our students and staff have built together. This judgement reflects our long track record of high expectations, strong relationships and preparing young people for ambitious futures.”
Chief Executive of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust Kate Ambrosi commented:
"This report confirms that UTC Portsmouth continues to deliver a top-class education for its students and we are incredibly pleased with it.
Its findings speak to the immense amount of thought that goes into designing the UTC's curriculum and approach. These are what help students achieve those very ambitious destinations.
Congratulations to them all."
The report concluded that UTC Portsmouth makes a significantly positive contribution to students’ lives - as one student told inspectors, “the whole place is geared towards helping us to succeed and go on to realise our dreams”.
The full report can be read on the Ofsted website.
For all media enquiries or to request a copy of the full press release, please contact Louise Holdstock (Marketing Manager) at: marketing@utcportsmouth.org