College scoops top work experience award

It has received gold level Work Experience Quality Standard accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to supporting young people into employment and training.

Developed by national charity Fair Train, in association with the Department for Education and Ofsted, the accreditation independently verifies the quality of all types of work experience, from placements to traineeships and apprenticeships.

The accreditation complements a raft of accolades already received by the college. It has been rated outstanding by Ofsted, it is third in the country for its apprenticeship success and has been named as the best provider of A Level and vocational qualifications in Lancashire. 

Beth Gardner, chief executive of Fair Train, said: “We are really pleased to be working with Nelson and Colne College; it is unusual for a college to become accredited at gold straight away which shows the fantastic work going on behind the scenes.

“This is a college which has vocational provision embedded into its core and has built extensive links with employers and the community to successfully achieve this.

“The Work Experience Quality Standard recognises the difference a high quality placement can make to an individual’s employment prospects and life. Nelson and Colne College joins a growing number of organisations across the country who are leading the way in creating opportunities for young people. Congratulations!”

Principal of Nelson and Colne College, Amanda Melton, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the gold level Work Experience Quality Standard accreditation.

“Here at Nelson and Colne College, our staff are committed to helping students secure work placements in their chosen sector to prepare them for their dream career.”