AN ORGANISATION dedicated to helping young people in Bradford into work and training has been praised by education inspectors who have rated it as 'good' in every category.

Independent learning provider Aspire-i is a not-for-profit organisation which provides study programmes for hundreds of 16 to 18-year-olds.

In 2014 its Aspire2work programme was judged to require improvement after an Ofsted inspection, with inspectors saying its end results were not sufficiently high, that development of English skills was "variable" and that the quality of sub-contractors used for training was inconsistent.

But the group has been praised in a report of the latest inspection which highlights the work it does with people such as recent migrants and those who have been excluded from school.

The report says: "Directors and senior managers responded energetically and successfully to the areas of improvement identified at the previous inspection.

"Teaching, learning and assessment are consistently good across the provision. Staff provide comprehensive learning support to help learners overcome their significant personal difficulties and remain on the programme.

"Learners develop good employability skills through supportive work placements that match their career aims well.

"Learners make good progress from their very low starting points, in developing vocational skills and knowledge."

The report points out that a quarter of young people on the courses have either been excluded from school or had attendance problems, and many have other issues like a lack of English skills.

It adds: "They quickly develop confidence, self-discipline, communication skills and study skills, which provide a solid foundation on which to build their vocational and employability skills.

"For example, one learner who could not speak English when she came to Bradford eight months ago can now speak English fluently.

"Learners participate in an extensive range of enrichment classes and activities. Topics include sexual health, healthy eating, drug awareness, interview techniques, confidence building, leadership skills, and equality and diversity."

An Aspire i spokesman said: "We achieved record levels of success last year with more than 93 per cent of those enrolling on a training course going on to get their qualifications - despite the fact that most of them, like far too many youngsters in Bradford, left school with very little to show for it."

Caroline Harrison, group chief executive officer, added: “This is great news for young people aged 16 plus, from Bradford and beyond, who can confidently choose an alternative to school or college that will make a very real difference to their prospects in life. "Our aspire2work programme offers a wide range of exciting career options, and all of the support learners need to get ahead and get a job they will enjoy.

"It is completely free, and we are able to offer financial support with other costs, such as travel and equipment."

Councillor Susan Hinchliffe, the executive member for education and skills at Bradford Council, said: "Sixteen to 18 is a really important time for young people in establishing a successful working life and it's obvious that Aspire-i is supporting them with good quality provision."