Estyn Inspection Report 2026

Students walking and talking outside TLZ campus

Recognising strengths, supporting learners and driving improvement across Coleg Gwent

In February 2026, Estyn inspected the further education provision at Coleg Gwent.

The report recognises strengths across the college, including learner wellbeing, supportive learning environments, inclusive practices and staff professionalism. It also identifies areas for further improvement, which will inform the college’s Quality Improvement Plan.

Key strengths identified by Estyn

Learner wellbeing and support

“Nearly all learners feel safe and secure on campus and know where they can go or who they can speak to if they have a problem.” – Estyn Inspection Report, 2026

  • Learners feel safe and supported

  • Strong relationships between staff and learners

  • Inclusive learner experience across campuses

  • Wide range of support services and enrichment opportunities

Teaching and learning

“Nearly all teachers create calm, purposeful learning environments that are conducive to learning.” – Estyn Inspection Report, 2026

  • Purposeful learning environments

  • Strong subject knowledge from staff

  • Effective practical and vocational teaching

  • Good development of literacy and numeracy skills

Spotlight areas

  • Literacy and numeracy within level 3 programmes

  • Coleg Gwent Deaf Club

  • Professional learning and staff development

Areas for improvement

Students in the library

Recommendations

Estyn identified five recommendations to support the college’s next phase of improvement:

1. Improving learner outcomes

2. Strengthening stretch and challenge in teaching

3. Supporting learners with ALN consistently

4. Improving self-evaluation and improvement planning

5. Increasing opportunities to develop Welsh language and culture

A detailed action plan is being developed in response to these recommendations, building on improvement work already underway across Coleg Gwent.

Students walking in the sun outside Crosskeys campus

Our commitment

Estyn recognised the college’s strategic direction, investment in specialist facilities and focus on improvement.

We remain committed to supporting learners through high-quality teaching, inclusive support and opportunities that help them succeed.