Nelson and Colne College is a high performing, ambitious organisation. Expertly led by Principal and CEO Amanda Melton, the college’s staff, Governing Board and Leadership Team have set and driven challenging targets. Through passion, creativity, rigour and diligence the college delivers year on year improvement, growth and most importantly, highly successful students and Apprentices.

The college provides exceptional education to approximately 1,800 16 to 18-year-old A Level and vocational students, supported by a creative curriculum including unique Pre-Professional Programmes to prepare students for careers in Medicine, Law, Business, Teaching and Journalism; an Ambitions programme for Pre-advanced students and a Pre-Apprenticeship programme (for skilled occupations) to deliver work-ready students. A strong alumni network also inspires students and showcases positive destinations.

In 2017-18, the college had a 99% pass rate at A Level and a 99.6% advanced vocational pass rate. One in five of leavers progress on to a Russell Group university, including Oxbridge.

The college’s growing Apprenticeship offer and reputation for excellence encompasses over 1,000 Apprentices working in businesses both large and small across the North West, delivering measurable impact to the region. Apprenticeship achievement rates are consistently 20% above the national average and the college’s tailored approach to delivery includes a unique talent matching service to pair the very best candidates with businesses and high quality upskilling of staff to help companies retain star employees, aid succession planning and close skills gaps.

The overarching college organisation also includes Lancashire Adult Learning, supporting 14,500 adult and community learners, a University Centre launched in 2017 and sponsorship of the multi-Academy Pendle Education Trust, delivering outstanding progress. An imminent merger with Accrington and Rossendale College in November 2018 will build on the strengths of both colleges who have ambitious plans to support students, staff, employers and stakeholders and to achieve greater success.