Itchen College Review 2026: Inclusive Excellence and Community Spirit

Perched on the Middle Road in Bitterne, Itchen College has served the Southampton community for over a century. Originally founded in 1906, it has evolved into a bustling sixth form college that prides itself on being "a great place to learn". Unlike the smaller school sixth forms in the city, Itchen offers a distinct bridge to adulthood for over 1,400 students.

The college is led by Principal Rebecca Stratton, appointed in 2026 following the long tenure of Alex Scott. Under this leadership, the college has cemented its reputation not just as an academic provider but as a hub for community learning and sporting excellence. The atmosphere is distinctly different from a secondary school; there are no bells, no uniforms, and students are on first-name terms with staff. It suits those ready to shed the constraints of Year 11 and embrace a more independent style of learning.

The campus blends the historic with the functional. The original Edwardian building stands as a reminder of the college's heritage, while modern additions house the specialist facilities required for a broad curriculum. At drop-off, the gates reveal a diverse community; the college attracts students from across Southampton and Hampshire, alongside a vibrant international cohort who join for English language and study programmes. This international dimension gives the common room a cosmopolitan feel rare in state sixth forms.

The environment is relaxed but purposeful. Students manage their own free periods and the relationship with teachers is one of partnership rather than hierarchy. This requires a level of self-discipline that some 16-year-olds relish, while others find the newfound freedom a steep learning curve.

Inclusivity is a core tenet here. The college welcomes students with a wide range of prior attainment, offering pathways that range from entry-level courses to A-levels. This diversity is a strength, creating a grounded and real-world social environment.

Itchen College is an inclusive institution, and its raw academic data reflects a mixed-ability intake rather than a selective cohort.

In 2024, A-level performance sits in the national lower band, reflecting outcomes below the England average. The college ranks 2058th in England for A-level results (FindMySchool ranking) and 5th among providers in Southampton.

The published figures suggest that 31.5% of A-level entries achieved grades A*-B, compared to the England average of 47.2%. At the top end, 3.6% of grades were A*, while 6.2% were A. While these figures indicate that the college is not an academic hothouse, they must be viewed in the context of the college’s inclusive admissions policy. The college adds value by supporting students who might not have met the entry requirements for selective sixth forms, helping them secure qualifications they need for their next steps.

For families, the implication is clear: high-flying academic students will need to be self-motivated to push for top grades here, but those who found school stifling may find the supportive college environment helps them achieve their potential.

The curriculum is vast. One of Itchen's primary advantages over school sixth forms is the sheer range of courses. Students can mix and match A-levels with BTECs and vocational qualifications, creating a tailored programme that plays to their strengths.

Teaching is characterised by supportiveness. Staff are specialists in 16-19 education, accustomed to bridging the gap between GCSE and advanced study. Departments such as Media and Performing Arts benefit from specialist facilities, including a fully operational radio station, Itchen Radio, which broadcasts online and offers students real-world industry experience.

Class sizes vary but are generally smaller than university lectures, allowing for individual attention. The learning support department is particularly strong, providing assistance for students with additional needs to ensure they can access the full curriculum.

The destinations data for Itchen College highlights its role as a launchpad into diverse futures, not just university.

In 2024, 24% of leavers progressed to university. While this is lower than the average for selective providers, it reflects the high proportion of students choosing direct entry into the workforce or apprenticeships. Indeed, 34% of leavers moved directly into employment, a figure that underscores the college's focus on employability and vocational skills.

7% of students secured apprenticeships, often leveraging the college's strong links with local employers in Southampton. For those pursuing higher education, popular destinations include local stalwarts like the University of Southampton, Portsmouth, and Solent, alongside specific specialist colleges for arts and sports students.

Admissions are handled directly by the college. The process is designed to be accessible, starting with an online application typically submitted in the autumn or spring of Year 11. The college strongly recommends applying by Easter to secure course choices, though applications are accepted year-round if places remain.

There is no strict catchment area, though most students travel from within Southampton and the surrounding Hampshire villages. The entry requirements depend on the course. For a standard A-level programme, the college typically asks for five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths. However, specific subjects may require higher grades (often a 6).

Crucially, the college offers Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) and Level 1 pathways for students who need to retake English or Maths or build their qualifications before attempting Level 3. This flexibility ensures that almost every motivated student can find a place.

Open evenings are held throughout the year, usually in July, September, and October. Prospective students are interviewed as part of the application process; this is a guidance discussion to ensure they are on the right courses rather than a test.

Moving from a school to a college can be daunting, and Itchen has structured its pastoral care to provide a safety net. Every student is assigned a Personal Tutor who monitors attendance and progress. They meet regularly for 1:1 reviews to discuss targets and any personal issues.

The Student Services team is a central hub for wellbeing, offering counselling, financial advice, and careers guidance. For students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), the support is robust, with a dedicated team ensuring that needs are met within the mainstream environment. The 2024 Ofsted inspection praised the provision for learners with high needs as Outstanding.

The college promotes a culture of "high challenge, high support". While students are treated as young adults, attendance is monitored closely, and parents are contacted if concerns arise.

The extracurricular life at Itchen is dominated by one major pillar: Sport.

Academy of Sport

Itchen is a powerhouse for student athletics. The Academy of Sport is one of the most comprehensive in the region, allowing talented athletes to combine elite training with their academic studies. The college fields teams in football, basketball, rugby, netball, and golf, competing at a national level. The facilities reflect this priority, featuring a multi-purpose sports hall, a fully equipped gym, and extensive playing fields. The implications for sporty students are significant: you can train like a professional without sacrificing your education.

Beyond sport, the Performing Arts department is a hive of activity. The college puts on regular productions, dance showcases, and music gigs. The creative arts are well-served by art studios and photography darkrooms.

For those interested in media, the student-run radio station is a standout feature. It allows students to present shows, manage tech, and understand broadcast regulations; experience that is gold dust for university statements or CVs.

Student voice is active, with the Student Union organising social events and charity fundraisers, ensuring that despite the large student body, there is a sense of community.

As a state sixth form college, there are no tuition fees for UK students aged 16 to 19. Education is fully funded by the government.

Costs for families are limited to optional extras such as trips, specific course materials, or the college bus pass. The college operates a 16-19 Bursary Fund for eligible students, providing financial support for transport, meals, and equipment based on household income.

For international students, tuition fees apply. Families from overseas should consult the International Admissions page for current rates, which typically sit between £12,000 and £13,000 per year.

The college day typically runs from 9.00am to 4.20pm, though individual timetables vary. Unlike school, students are only required to be on campus for their lessons and tutorials.

Transport is a key consideration. The college runs a network of dedicated bus services covering areas like Fareham, Gosport, and the New Forest, making it accessible for those living outside Bitterne. For local students, public transport links are strong.

Academic outcomes. With A-level results in the national lower band and 31.5% of grades at A*-B, the college is statistically outperformed by selective providers. Families seeking a high-pressure academic hothouse may find the pace here too relaxed.

Freedom requires responsibility. The shift from school to college brings freedom. There are no bells and no one chasing students to move between classes. Students who lack self-discipline can sometimes drift; success here requires a level of maturity.

Vocational strength. The raw A-level data does not capture the success of the vocational and BTEC cohorts, where many students excel. Families should look beyond the headline exam stats to the value-added in applied subjects.

Itchen College is a community anchor that offers a genuine alternative to the school sixth form. It champions inclusivity and offers a fresh start for students ready to be treated as adults. While it may not top the league tables for raw A-level attainment, its strength lies in its breadth, its exceptional sports provision, and its ability to get students onto the right career ladder, whether that be university or employment. Best suited to students who want to combine study with elite sport, or those seeking a supportive, diverse environment away from the school gate.