Accrington and Rossendale College (ARC), part of Nelson and Colne College Group (NCCG), is celebrating another outstanding year of success, with students achieving exceptional results in technical and vocational qualifications. Ranked Number 1 in the country for Vocational progress, NCCG ensures learners achieve higher here than they would at any other general Further Education College in the country.
The College Group’s T Level and Technical Level 3 provision, delivered at both Nelson and Colne College and Accrington and Rossendale College, has achieved exceptional results, including a record-breaking 100 per cent pass rate for T Levels and a 98 per cent pass rate for Technical Level 3, the college’s best Technical Level 3 results since the COVID pandemic.
92 per cent of T Level students were awarded high grades, a huge increase of 20 per cent from last year. These results are underpinned by an industry-focused curriculum and access to industry-standard facilities, including cutting-edge Digital and Health facilities at ARC ensuring students are fully prepared for higher education and the world of work.
Success is evident across a wide range of technical subject areas, with students benefiting from practical training and learning experiences that mirror real workplace environments.
Particularly notable achievements include 100 per cent high grades in T Level Early Years Educator, Digital Production Design and Development, Assisting with Healthcare Science, and Health Adult Nursing, while 39 per cent of T Level learners achieved either a Distinction or Distinction* grade. Technical Level 3 courses also excelled, with 94 per cent of students achieving high grades.
These results build on the college’s long-standing reputation for technical excellence and confirm its position as one of the top-performing colleges in the country for vocational education.
Principal Lisa O’Loughlin said: “For two decades, NCCG has proudly held an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating, the only college in the country to do so, and this year’s results are another example of why.
“These fantastic achievements are the result of our students’ dedication and ambition, supported by expert teaching and a learning environment that puts students first. We are proud to celebrate not only their results but the extraordinary journeys they will go on to take.”
Once again, many students are moving on to exciting next steps, with graduates securing competitive apprenticeships, skilled career opportunities, and progression to higher education institutions. The college’s strong industry partnerships ensure students are well-positioned for high-value technical careers, whilst others will continue their studies at universities offering specialised technical and professional programmes.
Lisa added: “Our teaching teams work tirelessly to inspire and support every learner, ensuring that success is not only measured by grades but also by the extraordinary opportunities students can progress to.
“And to all those receiving GCSE results next week, we want to invite them to come down and see for themselves how we can help them reach the same level of success as our students this year.”
