FOUNDATION diploma students studying art, design and media at Blackburn College have achieved the highest distinction rate in the country.

Forty three per cent of those graduating this summer will receive the top grade, compared to a national benchmark of 18 per cent.

Of the 76 who completed the course, almost half will continue their studies at University Centre.

Jamie Holman, foundation art, design and media programme leader, said: “The other half are progressing to the most prestigious institutions in the country which shows how highly our course is valued by the top colleges and universities.”