The Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC)’s independent specialist college, Dorton College, has been awarded a ‘Good’ rating following its recent inspection by the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted). Everyone associated with RSBC and the College is thrilled with the outcome, which celebrates so many amazing achievements! 

RSBC Dorton College is based in Orpington in the London Borough of Bromley, and is the only independent specialist further education provider for vision impaired young people aged 16 to 25, some with additional needs, in the London and South East region. Through highly specialised education, therapies and learning support, the Dorton College team delivers a bespoke vision impairment curriculum for each student.

In its report, Ofsted noted that Dorton College students are prepared well for independent living and working and feel safe, valuing highly the positive relationships they have with their tutors and learning support assistants. Expert staff use the ‘just enough support’ ethos effectively and, as a result, students have high levels of confidence.

Callum Russell, Chair of Governors at Dorton College, said: “The fact that Dorton College continues to be a ‘good’ provider, according to Ofsted, will enable us to grow and develop even further. It’s certainly something to be celebrated. As Chair of Governors, I am immensely proud of the entire Dorton College team for the dedication and commitment they display on a daily basis. I would like to thank all of them for everything they have done to this point, as this outcome would not have been possible without them.”

“As the only independent vision impairment specialist college in London and the South East, Dorton College is unique. I’m delighted with Ofsted’s inspection report rating, as it reflects the college team’s hard work and dedication,” College Principal and RSBC Education Director, Josie Grainger-Francova, commented. “We’re proud to take an individualised, hybrid approach, which helps ensure that every student can find independence and achieve their full potential to live a life without limits.”

The ’Good’ rating was something that the current students at Dorton College were also happy to hear about. They said:

“The hard work and effort put in by the staff at Dorton college in providing access to learning makes me feel valued as a student, and the supportive, friendly atmosphere that surrounds it makes me feel valued as a person.” – Madiha

“I’m really happy that we received a ‘Good’ and I’m really happy with Dorton College.” – Frankie

“ I love how Dorton college treats others. I like interacting with my friends here. I love how my support staff looks after me. I’m learning a lot, and I get lot of help.” – Maxx

“I am very proud of the college and this makes me happy.” – Jude

“I am happy to learn English at Dorton College. My LSA is helping me and she makes the work more accessible for me. I also like to study here because it’s a small college and the lessons are on one-to-one basis or in small group, which allows us to learn in a nice environment.” – Kerem

For more information on Dorton College, please visit https://www.rsbc.org.uk/get-our-help/dorton-college/

Read the full Dorton College Ofsted report:

Ofsted Report 2024 Dorton College