A performing arts college in Bexley has been rated as "Outstanding" by Ofsted.

Doreen Bird College of Performing Arts, in Sidcup, was awarded the top rating following the inspection on January 30.

The college, which offers diploma and degree courses in musical theatre, has a total of 81 students, including 29 aged between 16 and 18.

Ofsted inspectors found students at the college to be "highly motivated" and encouraged by teachers to become "the best, most authentic version of themselves as performers".

The Sidcup performing arts college was rated Outstanding in all areas assessed, as well as Outstanding overall.

Inspectors found training goes well beyond technical repetition, with teachers ensuring students understand the thought processes that influence characterisation in performance.

By their final year at the college, the report noted that students are "stage- and film-ready performers", armed with a highly developed dance repertoire, confident voice, versatile acting ability, and knowledge about being a resilient performer.

The outcomes of their hard work are reflected in their "high-quality final showreel".

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Ofsted also commended the college's focus on diversity and inclusivity, finding that students from all backgrounds felt very welcome there.

Inspectors found the college was keen on ensuring students' welfare and safety, and praised the staff's passion for teaching the students.

The report said: "The board of directors, leaders and staff are passionate about and dedicated to training their students to be skilled performers ready to fulfil their dreams of working in musical theatre.

"To achieve this, they have designed a curriculum that is focused extremely well on the evolving needs of the performing arts industry.

The report added: "They seek continuous feedback from industry professionals to guide them on curriculum development so that it is up to date and relevant."

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On one final positive note, the Ofsted report appreciated the professional level of career guidance available to students at Doreen Bird College of Performing Arts.

It noted that third year students received "useful weekly guidance" on various topics like tax returns for self-employment.

Inspectors concluded that, due to the outstanding training received at Doreen Bird College, most students complete their course, achieve their qualification, and are "ready for their career in the performing arts".