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Our Approach

St Albans Independent College is built upon the principle that the best way for students to achieve their academic potential is by excellent teaching in small group classes and by structured personal support.

Teaching in small groups allows for the emphasis of the lesson to be on discussion and interaction. This requires students to engage more deeply with the subject matter and ensures that learning is monitored throughout. Students also find that this interactive approach helps them to develop their confidence as well as their knowledge and understanding.

Each student is supported in their studies by a Mentor who will monitor their efforts and achievements, and help motivate them to achieve their best. Although there is a strong academic ethos at the College, the environment is friendly and supportive.

Pupils have excellent attitudes to learning. They enjoy coming to college and they value their lessons. The atmosphere in classes is typically very positive, with a clear emphasis on making progress. Pupils show utmost respect for others’ ideas and points of view when debating issues.

Pupils’ conduct is excellent. The pupils are extremely respectful of their peers, adults and visitors. They have impeccable manners. The atmosphere in college is an exceptionally positive and happy one, and pupils grow in self-esteem and confidence.

Ofsted Inspection Report (May 2017)

When first established, the College provided personal tutoring to A-level students who were looking to improve their grades in order to secure a place at their chosen university.

In 2003, St Albans Independent College became an accredited school, registered with the Department of Education, and was able to offer GCSE courses for the first time, alongside existing A-level programmes.

In 2004 with the appointment of Assim Jemal as Principal, the College premises were expanded to accommodate the growing number of students attending the College.

In 2011, Elvis Cotena was appointed Co-Principal. Since then, both Principals have worked to develop and broaden both the GCSE & A-level curriculum and to develop management structures to ensure that teaching across the whole College is always of a high standard. This was acknowledged in our most recent Ofsted Inspection Report published in March 2014.

St Albans Independent College continues to evolve and grow and is a thriving Independent College that provides over 20 subjects at GCSE and at A-level, to students from 14 to 19 years of age.

To this day we have remained true to our ethos on which the College was founded.

About Us