BURNLEY College’s sixth form has been recognised as the highest achieving in the country, according to the most recent government figures.

Department of Education officials analysed results and progress rates from colleges across the UK in order to compile the National Achievement Rate Tables and found that Burnley College occupied the top spot.

This comes as the college continues to invest in its £100 million town centre campus and further expanding its Centre of Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Excellence.

Principal Karen Buchanan said: “I am immensely proud that the outstanding, on-going efforts of our students, apprentices and staff have been recognised nationally.

“However, success for us, in the Burnley College family, is not merely about statistics and league tables.”

“Success is changing the lives of our students and apprentices: providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to stand head and shoulders above the rest; the broad range of experiences which empower them to determine and shape their own future and the support to develop as confident, resilient members of society, with the drive to make a positive difference.”

College leaders were particularly pleased by the findings after facing the challenges posed by the coronavirus crisis, which was hugely disruptive to the education process, forcing the college to close and conduct much of its activities online and by distance.

With A level and vocational results day fast approaching and staff preparing for the next school year, college leaders will hope that these results mark the opening of a new chapter after such a difficult period.

Ms Buchanan said: “We will share our pride and celebrate together as the Burnley College family when the education landscape returns to normal following Covid-19: it is great to have some good news to share when, for so long, our efforts have been concentrated on ensuring the academic progress and health and wellbeing of our students, apprentices and staff.”

For a full breakdown of the Department of Education's findings, go to: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sfa-national-success-rates-tables.