A SECURE training centre has been given a good inspection report with several excellent ratings by an educational watchdog.

The report into Hassockfield Secure Training Centre (STC), near Consett - which is managed by Serco - follows an unannounced inspection in early July by Ofsted, the Quality Care Commission and Her Majesty Inspector of Prisons.

They rated its overall ability to meet the needs of young offender as good with outstanding features.

The report highlights many of the innovative strategies employed to ensure that the care and wellbeing of the young residents is of a very high standard.

Steve Hewer, custodial director of Hassockfield STC said “The unannounced inspection in July enabled us to show how effectively we support the young offenders, many of whom come from difficult and troubled backgrounds.

“The report recognises the outstanding performance in education and resettlement and the fact that the rate of young offenders who re-offend is 42 per cent.

“This is significantly lower than the national average and pays testament to the professional and expert team that works here.

“However we are not complacent and there is still much to do.”

The 2013 report highlighted 14 recommendations which have all been implemented.

The 2014 report makes no recommendations that require to be implemented immediately and highlights three recommendations which should be implemented within three months in the areas of health care and education and seven recommendations which should be implemented within six months.

Hassockfield Secure Training Centre is one of four purpose-built secure training centres country-wide and offers secure provision for young people aged from 12 to 18 who meet the criteria for a custodial sentence, or who are remanded to a secure setting.