A COLLEGE has been named first in the county for the progress its A-level students have made after it celebrated a 100 per cent pass rate this summer.

Nelson and Colne College celebrated its students’ achievements at an award ceremony attended by alumni and guests, on Wednesday evening.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Around 200 people attended the Star Awards, which celebrate the achievements of students who have gone above and beyond during their time at college and who are now preparing to take their next steps to university, jobs and apprenticeships.

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson, former student and entrepreneur Azhar Siddique, the mayor and mayoress of Pendle, governors, parents and headteachers got a red carpet entrance before being welcomed by the chair of governors Stephen Barnes.

Presentations were given by alumni Sarah Kendall, a University of Leeds microbiology student, and international opera singer Sean Ruane sang Nessun Dorma.

The latest government data placed the college number one in Lancashire for the progress students make in their A-levels, and number one in the area for vocational studies.

Principal Amanda Melton said: “Our latest Star Awards Evening was a huge success – there was a real sense of celebration and excitement throughout the night, as students prepare to leave NCC for their next step at university, in an apprenticeship or in the workplace.

“It is always sad to say goodbye to our students, but it is wonderful to see them getting ready for their futures and seeing their aspirations become reality.

“I must thank all our VIP guests for the evening and our wonderful guest speakers Sarah and Sean, who were truly inspirational and helped show our students how hard work and determination can ultimately help them achieve their career goals.

“This year we have once again seen some outstanding grades across our A-level and vocational studies, and this is testament to the work of both the students and our outstanding tutors, who work tirelessly to provide support and guidance, as well as endless extra-curricular activities.”

Prizes were handed out to highest achieving A-level student Sam Bolton while Gold Awards were given to Chantelle Waddington and Shaughna Anderson.

The college achieved 100 per cent vocational and 99.9 per cent A-level pass rates with more than half of exam entries gaining A*,A and a B this summer.