A NORTH Yorkshire business specialising in the provision of distance learning has achieved a “Good” rating in its first ever Ofsted report.

The Skills Network (TSN), founded eight years ago, employs more than 800 people including 160 full-time staff at its headquarters in Selby.

In its first inspection by education review body Ofsted, the organisation attained a consistent rating of Good across all inspection areas, being praised highly for its “expertly designed” curriculum, “highly-qualified and experienced staff” and “extensive range of high-quality vocationally-based online resources”.

While the inspection primarily looked at Advanced Learner Loans provision, TSN’s systems and philosophy prove to be the same for all learners regardless of how they are funded, currently delivering qualifications to more than 25,000 students a year.

Mick Cox, chief executive, at The Skills Network, said: “This is a fantastic moment for our organisation, we have worked tirelessly to ensure our learners get a best-in-class service and utilise new skills to achieve their goals.

“Comments from an impartial and external inspectorate has just rubber-stamped what we always believed, that we are an exceptional provider.

“This inspection has highlighted the incredible dedication from each member of staff, as well as the innovative and progressive approach we adopt as our philosophy.

“We view this report as something we will build upon, not being complacent, taking the positives and the suggested improvements and continuing to strive towards our pathway to outstanding.”

The report said: “Learners benefit from high-quality and relevant online learning resources that inspire learners and support them to extend their knowledge beyond the requirements of the qualification.

“A very high proportion of learners improve their work situation. The positive outcomes that TSN learners experience are consequential to the high standard of teaching, learning and assessment provided.”