Rotherham Opportunities College, which helps young adults with special educational needs prepare for life after education, has been granted charitable status by the Charities Commission.

The college, which supports learners aged 16 to 25, recently received a good rating from OFSTED. Becoming a registered charity will allow it to expand fundraising efforts to provide more vocational support for students. Around 75 learners are expected to join the college this September.

The college’s unique approach has attracted interest from across South Yorkshire, Kirklees, and North East Lincolnshire. Many students have complex needs, and the college aims to equip them with the skills required for independent living and full-time employment.

Students benefit from supported internships with local businesses, and staff and learners run the popular ROC Café at Ulley Country Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They also take part in a variety of vocational activities to support the local community throughout the year.

Dr Perdita Mouseley, Principal of Rotherham Opportunities College

Dr Perdita Mouseley, Principal of Rotherham Opportunities College, said: “Becoming a registered charity is something we have been working towards for some time. It is an important milestone for the college because it will help us to explore new opportunities when it comes to accessing new streams of funding. We believe that everyone who spends time at our college can play an important role in our local community. Our learning experiences are designed to equip our students with the vital skills needed to enjoy many of the things that we all take for granted in adulthood. Over the years, we’ve forged some terrific partnerships with local businesses and community-led organisations, and we are hoping to extend our offering to ensure that no young adult with special educational needs is left behind. We’ve got some exciting plans for the college and becoming a charity is central to us realising those ambitions.”

The new charitable status marks a significant step in Rotherham Opportunities College’s ongoing mission to help young adults achieve their full potential while contributing to their local communities.