Celebrating a Strong Ofsted Outcome in Our Tenth Anniversary Year
Posted 6th September 2026
This year marks ten years of Red Kite Teacher Training supporting future teachers to begin successful careers in the classroom. As the partnership celebrates this milestone, it is also celebrating a fantastic outcome following its latest Ofsted inspection, with every aspect of its primary and secondary provision recognised as meeting a Strong Standard under Ofsted's renewed Initial Teacher Education framework.
Over the past decade, the partnership has supported hundreds of trainee teachers as they take their first steps into the profession and go on to make a lasting difference to children and young people across the region and beyond.
Inspectors recognised the quality of training, mentoring and support available throughout the programme, highlighting the positive impact this has on trainees preparing for the profession. In the primary phase, Ofsted found that:
"Trainees are very well prepared to become primary teachers. Their skills, readiness for the classroom and professional attitudes are regarded highly by local employers."
In the secondary phase, inspectors highlighted how trainees develop a:
"Deep and coherent body of knowledge and skills, preparing them well for the classroom."
Throughout the report, inspectors recognised the culture that sits at the heart of Red Kite Teacher Training, noting that:
"Collaboration and continuous improvement underpin the culture and values of this provider."
The report also acknowledged the values that shape the programme and its partnerships, stating that:
"'Wise compassion' and 'professional generosity' are guiding principles for leaders' actions and are lived out in their work with trainees and the wider partnership."
These values have been central to Red Kite Teacher Training since its inception and continue to influence the way trainees, mentors, school leaders and colleagues work together across the partnership.
Inspectors also highlighted the programme's inclusive approach to supporting trainees and recognised the personalised support available to help every trainee succeed. Of particular note was the provider's commitment to ensuring trainees can develop in ways that suit their individual strengths and circumstances.
The report further praised the role of Red Kite Teacher Training's Early Career Leaders (ECLs), whose support, expertise and responsiveness were identified as a significant strength across the programme. Inspectors described the role of ECLs as pivotal in ensuring trainees receive consistent, high-quality support and guidance throughout their training.
Victoria Lickley, Director of Red Kite Teacher Training, said:
"We are absolutely delighted with this outcome. It is a wonderful recognition of the dedication, expertise and generosity of everyone involved in Red Kite Teacher Training.
As we celebrate ten years of training teachers, this report gives us an opportunity to reflect on everything we have achieved together. From our partner schools and mentors to our Early Career Leaders, governance board and central team, so many people contribute to creating an environment in which trainees can thrive.
What makes me most proud is the impact our trainees go on to have. The care, support and challenge they receive throughout the programme helps them develop the confidence, knowledge and professional skills they need to succeed in the classroom and make a real difference to children and young people.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey over the past decade and look forward to continuing to work together to develop the next generation of exceptional teachers."
As Red Kite Teacher Training enters its second decade, the partnership remains committed to providing high-quality, research-informed teacher training and supporting future teachers to build successful and rewarding careers in education. Through strong partnerships, expert mentoring and a shared commitment to excellence, Red Kite Teacher Training will continue to help aspiring teachers flourish and make a positive impact in classrooms, schools and communities for years to come.