Preston's College is top of the class

The Fulwood-based college has been ranked among the top 15 per cent nationally when it comes to classroom-based learning.

This figure is based on 251 providers, including further education, sixth form and specialist colleges.

The overall college achievement rate, published national Qualification Achievement Rate report, improved from 89.1 per cent in 2017-18 to 90.4 per cent in 2018-19, almost four per cent above the National Achievement Rate (NAR).

The college's 16-18 year old school leavers cohort performed particularly well, achieving five per cent above the NAR.

According to the data apprentices at the St Vincent's Road college significantly exceeded national averages in 2018-19, with improved performance against a declining national average.

Preston’s College apprentices performed more than six per cent above the NAR, reinforcing excellent technical learning, alongside effective partnership working with employers.

College principal and chief executive Dr Lis Smith said: " We are extremely proud of the achievements of all of our learners, which reinforce the hard work, dedication and commitment that they show towards their learning.

"The college has shown year-on-year improvement over the last three years and we are proud to be recognised nationally for our achievements."

She added: "We continue to deliver excellence in teaching and learning, and the results of our learners and apprentices reinforce our place as one of the top providers of technical education nationally and locally.

"As a proud community provider, our mission is to make our learners the most employable that they can be, and in doing so, we not only prepare them effectively for further study, but ensure that they develop the skills, knowledge and competencies required to add-value to the Lancashire economy."

The college car park is currently being used as a coronavirus testing centre for key workers.