Kisharon Langdon announced an additional series of decisive measures following the latest Ofsted inspection of Langdon College, Manchester, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to addressing serious concerns and enhancing educational standards.

The recent Ofsted Report raised issues regarding the Manchester College’s Leadership and Management, which Kisharon Langdon had already been addressing. Following the inspectors’ findings Kisharon Langdon has taken additional immediate and significant steps, the College Trustees and Governors resigned, and new Trustees have been appointed to drive forward necessary improvements.

Ofsted noted that the newly appointed governing body and the Kisharon Langdon Education Committee are well-qualified and have the determination and expertise to improve the quality of the provision. Ofsted further considers those now involved to have extensive experience, both personal and professional, of the needs of learners with SEND.

Katie Morley has been appointed as the new College Principal, commencing her role in September. Dr Emily Haddock, Kisharon Langdon’s Director of Education, has been serving as Interim Principal, and Emma Castleton, the chair of the charity’s Education Committee, has stepped in as Interim Chair of College Trustees to support the transition.

Following consultations with key stakeholders, including communal, rabbinic, and governmental bodies, Kisharon Langdon has decided to close Langdon College’s Manchester campuses at the end of December 2024. The London College site and other Manchester services will continue to operate, ensuring ongoing provisions for our community. Parents and College staff have been informed. Efforts are underway, in collaboration with the Department for Education and Local Authorities, to secure suitable alternative placements for the affected students.

Richard Franklin, Chief Executive of Kisharon Langdon, stated:

“We deeply value the support from local rabbinic leadership, Local Authorities, and community leaders. Our actions reflect Kisharon Langdon’s unwavering commitment to high standards, safeguarding, and continuous improvement. We are confident these necessary measures will lead to positive outcomes for the future.”

Kisharon Langdon remains dedicated to fostering the best possible cultural environment across all services offered to reinforce its mission of supporting the Jewish learning disability and autism community to thrive.