NELSON & Colne College has been named number one in the country for its 16-to-18 apprenticeship provision across all levels.

It was measured against other further-education colleges in the latest National Achievement Rate Tables, which place the Barrowford-based college top for work with apprentices aged 16 to 18.

The figures show NCC is second in the country for overall apprenticeship provision, overall classroom learning, and 16-to-18 classroom learning for all levels.

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The latest achievements come after the college topped the Department for Education’s School & College Performance Table this year for the progress students make in its A-level studies — as well as top in the area for vocational studies.

Principal Amanda Melton said: “To be named first in the country for our 16-to-18 apprenticeship success is an incredible achievement, and I am, as always, so proud of Nelson & Colne College’s staff and students for continually going above and beyond in their work and studies.

“We are passionate about making sure each student is on the right pathway — be it an apprenticeship, a vocational course, or A-levels — so they are as prepared as possible for their future upon leaving college. Thanks also to employers across East Lancashire, who are supporting and benefiting from apprenticeships within their company.

“We pride ourselves on the Pre-Apprenticeship Support we offer at NCC, to ensure students have the right skills to meet the recruitment needs of businesses. This includes individualised advice, guidance and support, industry-specific qualifications and an opportunity to complete certain key skills essential for employment.”

Apprenticeships are wor- k-based training progra- mmes, which lead to students gaining a nationally recognised qualification.

They are available in more than 170 industries, and at NCC programmes are offered in a wide range of areas including beauty therapy, catering and business administration.

Cameron Monk, an NCC engineering apprentice, who is completing his placement with Hope Technology, said: “I have been given all the support I need from NCC staff and my employer to fulfil my ambitions of eventually working in Hope’s research and development department.”