Mulberry UTC, located in London, is a university technical college that opened in September 2017. It is part of the Mulberry Schools Trust and is sponsored by several prominent organizations, including Goldsmiths, University of London, Barts Health NHS Trust, the National Theatre, the British Film Institute, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. The school serves students aged 14 to 19, offering a curriculum that combines academic subjects with vocational training in areas such as science, health and social care, creative and digital media, business, and performing arts.
The recent inspection conducted on March 10-11, 2020, rated the overall effectiveness of the school as good, along with the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
Students at Mulberry UTC engage in work-related courses and academic GCSEs and A levels, with a strong emphasis on preparing them for the world of work. The school has high expectations for all pupils, aiming to equip them with the skills necessary for future employment in London. Pupils report feeling happy, safe, and respected within the school environment, with rare occurrences of bullying. The school promotes kindness and respect for diversity among students, and teachers are proactive in addressing any issues that arise.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and focus during lessons, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere with minimal disruption. The leadership team is committed to providing a high-quality education and has carefully planned the curriculum to meet the needs of all students. The school offers a range of specialist subjects that engage pupils and prepare them for future careers. However, some teachers are not specialists in the subjects they teach, which can impact student achievement. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all teachers receive appropriate training in their subject areas.
The school has identified key characteristics for pupil development, including promoting equality and diversity, which are integrated into the curriculum through personal, social, and health education. A variety of extracurricular activities are available, primarily related to specialist subjects, but there is a need for a broader range of activities beyond these areas. The school has recently implemented a system to track student participation in extracurricular activities, but it is not yet fully operational.
Leaders are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Support is provided in the classroom to help these students succeed. The school fosters a supportive environment for staff, offering training opportunities and being mindful of their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Mulberry UTC are effective, with regular training for staff and clear procedures for reporting concerns. Leaders work closely with external agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils. Overall, the school is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for their future endeavors, while also fostering a respectful and inclusive community. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teachers are specialists in their subjects and expanding the range of extracurricular activities available to students.
