Inclusive education work across Torbay and South Devon praised by Ofsted

The Learning Curve has been recognised for its inclusive approach after becoming one of the first education providers to be inspected under Ofsted’s new framework.

The Learning Curve, part of the Eat That Frog Group, has been judged to be meeting the expected standard overall following an Ofsted inspection in November 2025, with inclusion graded as a strong standard and safeguarding requirements met.

The provision, which supports 16 to 18-year-olds who are not currently in education, employment or training across Torbay, Teignbridge and Plymouth, was one of the first organisations to be assessed under Ofsted’s updated inspection framework.

Of the 15 independent learning providers inspected nationally during the initial phase of the new framework, The Learning Curve was the only provider to receive a ‘Strong’ grading for inclusion. All others were graded either ‘Expected’ or ‘Needs attention’ in this area.

Inspectors highlighted the organisation’s inclusive and person-centred culture, stating that “leaders create a highly inclusive culture” and that “tutors are highly experienced in supporting young people facing significant life challenges.”

The report noted the positive support offered to disadvantaged learners, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and care experience. It also recognised the impact of community engagement, work experience and volunteering opportunities in building learners’ confidence, resilience and employability skills.

The inspection assessed performance across several areas under the revised framework, including leadership, learner experience, inclusion and safeguarding.

Ian Powell, Managing Director of the Eat That Frog Group, said: "This outcome is a direct reflection of the passion, care and hard work shown by our staff across the organisation not just during inspection week but every single day. We are immensely proud of everyone and those who supported the inspection, shared their practice so openly and continue to live and breathe our values in their work."

Ofsted confirmed that The Learning Curve operates as part of the wider Eat That Frog Group, with strong oversight from trustees and senior leaders who share a clear vision focused on improving life chances for young people.

The report added: “Leaders are rightly proud of the difference they make to learners’ lives and celebrate this in events where learners showcase their projects and reflect on their learning.”

Eat That Frog Group delivers education, training and employability support across the UK and internationally. Its provisions include Eat That Frog CIC, a specialist post-16 and adult education provider, Eat That Frog Spain, which delivers international education and mobility programmes, and The Learning Curve, which funds targeted programmes delivered by Eat That Frog CIC.

The organisation said it will continue working with local authorities, employers and community partners to support progression, independence and long-term positive outcomes for young people.