ABDO College praised for apprenticeship programme progress in Ofsted New Provider Inspection
Ofsted has praised ABDO College for its apprenticeship provision in the recent new provider inspection. It recognised progress made across all key areas, highlighting the College’s strong leadership, high‑quality curriculum design, commitment to inclusion, and effective safeguarding arrangements.
The inspection took place on 14–15 January 2026 and inspectors talked to students, staff, employers and supervisors. You can read the published report here.
Strong leadership and sector‑focused vision
Ofsted commended the College’s leadership team for its highly effective partnership with employers and its unwavering commitment to delivering specialist training for the dispensing optician sector. Inspectors noted that leaders have “designed an apprenticeship programme which meets the needs of the dispensing optician sector very well” and maintain “an unwavering focus on the mission and vision” of providing high‑quality training for the profession.
Positive impact of inclusion and learner support
The report acknowledges real progress in the College’s approach to inclusion, noting that the College “uses information [on inclusion] well to put in place effective learning support plans”.
Ofsted also praised the College for adapting delivery to support apprentices with caring responsibilities, such as adjusting the frequency of face‑to‑face residential weeks. Short‑term support for those needing more input for mathematical concepts was highlighted as having a clear and positive impact.
High‑quality curriculum and industry expertise
Inspectors reported that the College’s curriculum is “very well sequenced and meets industry expectations highly effectively”. Apprentices gain essential knowledge and skills swiftly, with training delivered in well‑resourced classrooms and laboratories, supported by “teachers who are industry experts”.
Teachers’ secure subject expertise enables them to model techniques clearly and adapt curriculum content to reflect new technologies and industry developments, ensuring apprentices receive current and relevant training.
Effective safeguarding arrangements
All safeguarding expectations were met. Ofsted found that leaders use a “suitable range of policies and procedures that make a positive contribution to keeping apprentices safe”. Apprentices know how to report concerns and feel confident staff will take appropriate action.
The report also highlights careful and confidential recording of safeguarding concerns, including referrals to mental health first-aiders where appropriate. Staff and trustees receive regular safeguarding and Prevent duty training.
ABDO College – the sector’s leading specialist learning provider
Ofsted recognised the strong number of apprentices enrolled on the Level 6 dispensing optician apprenticeship. Inspectors noted that the College continues to strengthen its specialist role in supporting the future workforce of the optical profession.
Nina McDermott, ABDO College principal, commented, “I’m proud to see Ofsted recognise the strong progress we’re making and our students are making. Our specialist curriculum, expert teaching team and employer partnerships are delivering real impact for apprentices – and we’re just getting started. It was also great to see Ofsted highlight our well‑sequenced, industry‑aligned curriculum and the confidence apprentices build in applying new skills. A brilliant reflection of our team’s expertise.”
Daryl Newsome, FBDO R CL SMC(Tech), chair of trustees, said, “This report reflects the hard work across the College. Strengthened governance and robust challenge are helping us drive improvements that genuinely benefit apprentices and provide an apprenticeship programme that meets the needs of employers and strengthens the profession.”
The full Ofsted report can be found here.