Six Hyndburn students have been rewarded for their commitment to, and passion for, their studies.

The students, who attended Accrington and Rossendale College (ARC) and Nelson and Colne College (NCC), are successful applicants of the Pilkington Scholarship fund – providing a welcome cash boost to support them in pursuing their dream careers.

The fund, established in 1929, provides scholarships or grants for those aged 25 or under, who live within Hyndburn and are continuing their education through university level study. 

Awards were given for entries that demonstrate excellence, endeavour, greatest contribution, overcoming greatest obstacles and progress, following nominations for their tutors.

Four students who studied a NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care were the first to benefit.

Declan Bloomer, from Clayton-le-Moors, was nominated by tutor Cheri Fenwick.

She said: “Declan was a deserving candidate for the greatest achievement award. His outstanding academic achievements, successful completion of the Care Certificate, active involvement in extracurricular activities, and his pursuit of higher education all exemplify his commitment, dedication, and potential to make a significant impact in the field of healthcare and beyond.”

Declan has gone on to study Nutritional Science at Edge Hill University.

Cheri also nominated Halima Nawaz, from Accrington.

“Halima’s outstanding academic performance, work experience at esteemed healthcare institutions, and active participation in extracurricular activities made her an exceptional candidate for the Excellence award. 

“Her achievements, dedication, and potential for success in the field of children’s nursing – which she is studying Salford University – set her apart from her peers and made her a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.” 

Jessica McLoughlin, from Accrington, also benefitted from the fund.

Her entry said: “Jessica’s consistently high grades, active participation in extracurricular activities, and completion of the work placement made her an ideal candidate for the Endeavor Award. Her outstanding achievements, dedication, and passion for helping others positioned her as an exemplary individual deserving of recognition and support.”

Katelyn Hodgkinson, from Accrington, was praised for “consistent progress in academic studies, coupled with her excellent work experience reports and her decision to study Adult Nursing at UCLAN.”

NCC A Level student, Charlie Boyer, from Accrington, was nominated by his tutor Kat Atherton for overcoming obstacles.

Charlie has worked incredibly hard over the past two years during his A Levels, showing excellent resilience and true grit and determination after stepping up to the challenge during the transition from GCSEs.

Kat said: “Charlie showed great resilience in the face of some challenges in year 1. He remained committed, putting in extra effort by actively participating in additional workshops for support.”

Charlie is now studying Sports Journalism at UCLAN.

Joshua Baynes, from Accrington, studied a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science at ARC.

His nomination, submitted by tutor Michael Worthington, said: “Josh’s nomination for the category of Excellence was testament to his unwavering dedication, academic achievements, exceptional work experience, and relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.”

Josh is now studying Teacher Training at Edge Hill University and plans to become a PE Teacher.

The Pilkington Scholarship fund is one of the many ways that Accrington & Rossendale and Nelson & Colne College support learners to succeed and follow their dream career path. The courses are designed to teach technical and academic skills, supporting the people of Hyndburn to reach high value careers, and to meet the skills needs of regional employers.

Excelling in the regional SkillBuild qualifiers, Shelby Fitzakerly secured an impressive second place in the final of a national competition, which saw 78 construction trainees vying for victory in their respective trades.

19-year-old Shelby, an Accrington and Rossendale College student, part of the Nelson and Colne College Group (NCCG), knew she wanted to pursue a practical career where she could put her academic and technical skills to the test.

After winning her heat in the regional qualifiers of SkillBuild, Shelby, from Gisburn, went head-to-head with seven fellow apprentices in the final showdown at Milton Keynes.

Judges rigorously assessed competitors’ technical skills, knowledge, and ability to perform under pressure, evaluating tasks such as hanging wallpaper murals, freehand painting, and preparing woodwork against the clock. And Shelby emerged as a standout runner-up in the demanding painting and decorating category. An amazing achievement for a student just in the first year of training.

Shelby said: “The competition was amazing. Taking part gave me a real confidence boost and helped me improve my skills like my timing and following a plan.

“I couldn’t believe it when they called my name. I was in shock! It was great getting through to the finals and I didn’t expect anything else. It was a really good experience.”

Still in the first year of her three-year apprenticeship working for former Accrington and Rossendale College student Chris Penny, she plans to become a painter and decorator once qualified.

NCCG’s apprenticeship initiatives are strategically crafted often in collaboration with employers, ensuring the perfect alignment with the ever-evolving needs of modern industries. We take pride in addressing the most current skills gaps, providing businesses with a pipeline of ambitious talent armed with the latest industry knowledge.

Accrington and Rossendale College is a beacon for technical excellence, with strong employer links and unrivalled, tailored, tutor support. This is evident in Shelby’s success, not only within this competition, but within her Apprenticeship as well. 

Partnering with NCCG means tapping into a resource that tailors education to employer’s specific needs.

If you’re eager to boost your workforce with skilled professionals, reach out today. Discover how our apprenticeship programs can elevate your business by shaping a workforce that meets your industry’s demands.

Six Hyndburn students have been rewarded for their commitment to, and passion for, their studies.

The students, who attended Accrington and Rossendale College (ARC) and Nelson and Colne College (NCC), are successful applicants of the Pilkington Scholarship fund – providing a welcome cash boost to support them in pursuing their dream careers.

The fund, established in 1929, provides scholarships or grants for those aged 25 or under, who live within Hyndburn and are continuing their education through university level study. 

Awards were given for entries that demonstrate excellence, endeavour, greatest contribution, overcoming greatest obstacles and progress, following nominations for their tutors.

Four students who studied a NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care were the first to benefit.

Declan Bloomer, from Clayton-le-Moors, was nominated by tutor Cheri Fenwick.

She said: “Declan was a deserving candidate for the greatest achievement award. His outstanding academic achievements, successful completion of the Care Certificate, active involvement in extracurricular activities, and his pursuit of higher education all exemplify his commitment, dedication, and potential to make a significant impact in the field of healthcare and beyond.”

Declan has gone on to study Nutritional Science at Edge Hill University.

Cheri also nominated Halima Nawaz, from Accrington.

“Halima’s outstanding academic performance, work experience at esteemed healthcare institutions, and active participation in extracurricular activities made her an exceptional candidate for the Excellence award. 

“Her achievements, dedication, and potential for success in the field of children’s nursing – which she is studying Salford University – set her apart from her peers and made her a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.” 

Jessica McLoughlin, from Accrington, also benefitted from the fund.

Her entry said: “Jessica’s consistently high grades, active participation in extracurricular activities, and completion of the work placement made her an ideal candidate for the Endeavor Award. Her outstanding achievements, dedication, and passion for helping others positioned her as an exemplary individual deserving of recognition and support.”

Katelyn Hodgkinson, from Accrington, was praised for “consistent progress in academic studies, coupled with her excellent work experience reports and her decision to study Adult Nursing at UCLAN.”

NCC A Level student, Charlie Boyer, from Accrington, was nominated by his tutor Kat Atherton for overcoming obstacles.

Charlie has worked incredibly hard over the past two years during his A Levels, showing excellent resilience and true grit and determination after stepping up to the challenge during the transition from GCSEs.

Kat said: “Charlie showed great resilience in the face of some challenges in year 1. He remained committed, putting in extra effort by actively participating in additional workshops for support.”

Charlie is now studying Sports Journalism at UCLAN.

Joshua Baynes, from Accrington, studied a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science at ARC.

His nomination, submitted by tutor Michael Worthington, said: “Josh’s nomination for the category of Excellence was testament to his unwavering dedication, academic achievements, exceptional work experience, and relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.”

Josh is now studying Teacher Training at Edge Hill University and plans to become a PE Teacher.

The Pilkington Scholarship fund is one of the many ways that Accrington & Rossendale and Nelson & Colne College support learners to succeed and follow their dream career path. The courses are designed to teach technical and academic skills, supporting the people of Hyndburn to reach high value careers, and to meet the skills needs of regional employers.

Students from Accrington and Rossendale College are celebrating an outstanding 100% Advanced Vocational pass rate this Results Day 2021.

Many are now ready to progress onto some exciting and career-focused destinations, including university, Apprenticeships and employment opportunities.

Centre Principal for Accrington and Rossendale College Morag Davis said: “I would like to congratulate the Class of 2021 at Accrington and Rossendale College on their achievements at the end of a challenging academic year.

“We are seeing students progress onto a wide range of positive destinations, including university, Apprenticeships and employment, and we wish them every success in the future.”

Level 3 Sports Student Becky Holden from Haslingden High, 18, is progressing onto Liverpool John Moores University to study Sport Psychology as she pursues a career as a Sports Psychologist.

She said: “I enjoyed my time at College as the tutors are so supportive and are always there to help if you need it, no matter what it is.

“College was definitely more independent which was perfect for me as it allowed me to work more efficiently and the standard of my work was also significantly better.

“I would recommend Accrington and Rossendale College as it provides students with a wide range of great opportunities. The support you get from the tutors is amazing and they always push you to achieve you best.”

Students looking to study at Accrington and Rossendale College this September can visit the College on its enrolment days – Thursday 12^th August, 10am-7pm, and Friday 13^th August, 10am-4pm.

Results Day may fall on a different day in 2021, but there is no change in the outstanding results and positive destinations of students who have achieved extraordinary grades at Nelson and Colne College.

The College – one of the leading colleges nationally across a range of academic measures – has recorded an A Level pass rate of 100% in 2021.

This means the College will gain an ALPs 1 score which measures progress made, the best possible outcome, and this will place it among the very highest schools and colleges in the country. Nelson and Colne College already has the status of being the number one FE College in the country for A Level progress.

The College has also recorded a fantastic 100%* Advanced Vocational pass rate.

At A Level, the overall pass rates show 35.3% achieving A*-A grades,  66.6% high A*-B grades, and 85.6% A*-C. Broken down further, this shows:

Percentage of students who received at least one A*-C = 97%
Percentage of students who received at least one A*-B = 86.5%
Percentage of students who received at least one A*-A = 55.5%

Once again, the College is seeing students progress to some of the top universities in the country, including Imperial College London, the University of Manchester, the University of Leeds, the University of Liverpool and the University of Edinburgh, while other students have successfully gained Apprenticeships and employment.

Principal of Nelson and Colne College Group Amanda Melton said: “I am absolutely delighted for our students. They have worked so hard in such challenging circumstances and it is great to see them achieve the results they deserve.

I would also like to thank our phenomenal tutors who have worked tirelessly, in an unprecedented year, to support our students to achieve their very best.

This hard work and dedication of both staff and students has paid off as we celebrate yet another year of exceptional results.”

Fionnuala Swann, Assistant Principal for Academic Studies at the College said: ‘We couldn’t be prouder of our students’ achievements. They have worked so hard, and it is wonderful to see them secure their dream places at university and other exciting destinations. We wish them all the best for their next steps – congratulations to the Class of 2021!”

Grace McWilliam, formerly of Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, achieved A, A*, A* in her A Levels in Government and Politics, Philosophy Ethics and Religion, and Sociology. Grace will now progress onto the University of York to study Social and Political Sciences.

Grace, 18, said: “I have genuinely loved completing my A Levels at Nelson and Colne College and I cannot credit the Social Sciences department enough for instilling a lifelong love of philosophy, sociology and politics within me. Their endless encouragement and support has contributed to my ever-growing reading list.

“Classes are enjoyable, staff are extremely encouraging within classroom discussion, and assignments are relevant and returned promptly with detailed feedback.

“My teachers have shown genuine passion for the content which is infectious as a student and I think the department is unmatched in its subject material, revision resources and teaching staff.”

Jiya Mahmood, 19, formerly of Ss John Fisher and Thomas More RC High School achieved Triple Distinction* in her Level 3 Extended diploma in Science. Jiya is now progressing to Keele University to study Forensic Science and Human Biology.

Jiya said: “Studying at an accepting College that supports you in every aspect of your journey has really brought out the best in me. I have made new friends, it has helped secure amazing grades, and it has enabled me to pursue my passion for Forensic Science.

“Nelson and Colne College provides students with many opportunities – I have done the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Police Cadets, I’ve volunteered with the police and completed relevant work experience to my course. I also supported the Science department on open evenings, and would highly recommend studying here to others.”

Nelson and Colne College is one of the leading colleges nationally across a range of academic measures – 16-18 classroom learner achievement, 16-18 Advanced Apprenticeship timely achievement, A Level progress and GCSE Mathematics and English progress.

Nelson and Colne College is also the number one college in the country for student satisfaction.

Students looking to study at Nelson and Colne College this September can visit the College on its enrolment days – Thursday 12^th August, 10am-7pm, and Friday 13^th August, 10am-4pm.

 NCC – the leading FE College in the country for A Level progress – was already celebrating another outstanding year of results, but revised figures now show an even greater performance by its A Level students after the Government’s decision to accept Centre Assessed Grades, where higher, than results already issued.

Revised figures show the number of students achieving A*-A grades has risen by a huge 12 percentage points to 37%. Those achieving high A*-B grades have risen further still by 14 percentage points to 69%, while the number of A Level students achieving A*-C grades has also increased to 91%.

The college has now gained an ALPS 1 score, as a result of the improved grades, placing it among the best of all UK schools and sixth forms for value added performance. This confirms the high-quality teaching, support, care and guidance that students receive at Nelson and Colne College and it means that A Level students at NCC perform better than those at just about any other school or sixth form in the country when starting with the same GCSE grades on entry.

Revised figures show the number of students achieving A*-A grades has risen by a huge 12 percentage points to 37%. Those achieving high A*-B grades have risen further still by 14 percentage points to 69%, while the number of A Level students achieving A*-C grades has also increased to 91%.

The college has now gained an ALPS 1 score, as a result of the improved grades, placing it among the best of all UK schools and sixth forms for value added performance. This confirms the high-quality teaching, support, care and guidance that students receive at Nelson and Colne College and it means that A Level students at NCC perform better than those at just about any other school or sixth form in the country when starting with the same GCSE grades on entry.

Once again, the College is seeing students progress to some of the top universities in the country, including the University of Oxford, University College London, Durham University, the University of Manchester, the University of Leeds, and the University of York, while other students have successfully gained Apprenticeships and employment.

Bethany Waterhouse, 18, from Trawden, saw both her Biology and Chemistry grades downgraded prior to the U-turn, but she has now been awarded the Centre Assessed Grades of A*A*A in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.

A former student at Elmhurst Ballet School in Birmingham, Bethany will switch the chemistry of dance for that of the laboratory as she decided a career in ballet was not her future. She will instead progress on to the University of York to study Chemistry, opening new doors in the science industry.

Bethany said: “I’m much happier with my results now as they are more representative of what I feel I would have achieved had I sat my exams. I was extremely disappointed with Chemistry before the U-turn as that is the subject I am going to study and I was planning to re-sit it to improve my grade before the decision to accept the Centre Assessed Grades was made.”

During her time at College, Bethany was part of a team of three students from Nelson and Colne College who finished third in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s national annual analytical competition in 2019.

Bethany added: “I have enjoyed my time at College because there is a friendly atmosphere, which allows you to develop as a person and narrow your focus onto the university course or career goal which is right for you.

“I would recommend Nelson and Colne College for the excellent student support network and for the staff who are always there to help you. There are also many opportunities available to enhance your studies and enrich your personal statement and CV.”

Assistant Principal for Academic Curriculum at Nelson and Colne College Group Fionnuala Swann said: “I am extremely pleased and grateful that students are now being awarded Centre Assessed Grades. We as a College feel these grades reflect far more accurately the ability of our students and our predictions of what they would have achieved, had they sat their A Level exams in summer.

“It should be highlighted that these updated A Level results are robust results in their own right, and the Centre Assessed Grades have been calculated using rigorous methodology with teacher assessment, and moderation by Heads of Division and the Senior Leadership Team.

“We are exceptionally proud of the Class of 2020, and how they have responded to an unsettling and unprecedented moment in history. We wish them the best of luck as they progress onto their next steps, be it university, an Apprenticeship or employment.”

Nelson and Colne College is one of the leading colleges nationally across a range of academic measures – 16-18 classroom learner achievement, 16-18 Advanced Apprenticeship timely achievement, A Level progress and GCSE Mathematics and English progress. Nelson and Colne College is also the number one college in the country for student satisfaction.

Lancashire Adult Learning is supporting the Red Rose County’s workforce to improve their employment prospects with the offer of free fast-track English and Maths qualifications.

The new offer, beginning in September, provides adult learners aged 19+ in Lancashire to complete Level 1 or Level 2 qualifications in just 10 weeks from the comfort of their own homes.

A range of resources, tutorials and 1:1 support from LAL’s expert team is also available to help learners along the way during the 10-week period of study.

Qualifications in English and Maths are highly sought-after by employers and are often crucial in securing employment and providing a stepping stone into sustainable careers.

Complementing LAL’s new fast-track English and Maths offer are brand new Essential Digital Skills courses available to learners across the county, complete with a qualification where needed.

Also free, these courses will equip adults with the digital skills needed for life, work and study. They are designed to cover key digital areas including communicating, handling information and content, transacting, problem solving and being safe and legal online.

Lancashire Adult Learning has extremely high achievement rates with learners on Functional Skills courses. In the 2018-19 academic year, 97.3% learners achieved their Functional Skills Maths qualification with 95.5% successful in Functional Skills English.

In total, in 2018-19 LAL had over 2,700 adults enrolled on to basic skills courses including English, Maths, ESOL and ICT.

Assistant Principal for Adult Learning, Andy Parkin, said: “I’m delighted that we are able to support adult learners right across Lancashire with our new offer of fast-track English and Maths qualifications, which can boost employment prospects in just 10 weeks.

“At LAL, we are committed to supporting people into sustainable careers and ensuring that our learners reach their full potential, become economically active, and help them to become positive members of the communities that they live in.

“I’m equally pleased we are able to support adult learners with courses in Essential Digital Skills – an integral part of the modern working world, as well as daily life.

“Our dedicated team at LAL has demonstrated flexibility and innovation to bring these new courses to adult learners right across the Red Rose County from September, and we are ready to support them in the new academic year.”

Learners can sign up to the fast track English and Maths courses by visiting the LAL website at www.lal.ac.uk, where they will also be able to find out more and register an interest in the new Essential Digital Skills offer.

Those starting on the English and Maths qualifications will not have already achieved a Level 2 qualification in these areas. An online assessment will also be required prior to beginning the fast-track courses.

Adult learners across Lancashire can also access classes and resources through LAL’s website after the organisation completed a switch to online teaching and learning in April.

Included in the activities offered online through the LAL website are Employability, Volunteering, Health and Wellbeing, Family Learning, Arts and Media, Languages and ICT resources, enabling adult learners to enjoy learning from the comfort of their homes.

Further information about Lancashire Adult Learning can be found at www.lal.ac.uk or by calling 0333 003 1717.

Students from Accrington and Rossendale College are celebrating an outstanding 100% Advanced BTEC pass rate this Results Day 2020.

Despite an unprecedented year amidst the Covid-19 outbreak,Nelson and Colne College Group – which incorporates Accrington and Rossendale College – saw a 100% pass rate for students completing BTEC qualifications, with a staggering 85% of students achieving high grades.

Many are now ready to progress onto some exciting and career-focused destinations, including university, an Apprenticeship or a job. They include Creative Media Production student Luke Moffat who achieved Distinction* and Double Distinction and is progressing to Edge Hill University to study Film and Television Production.

Luke, 17, formerly of Haslingden High School, said: “I would recommend Accrington and Rossendale College as the teaching and support for students is excellent. The qualification shows that I am suited to media, and as I advance through my education, I will be able to specialise in the industry and I hope to one day become a producer.”

Isaac Bradshaw, formerly of The Hollins, has completed his Auto Electrics qualification at Accrington and Rossendale College and has secured employment at ADS Automotive, in Preston.

Isaac, 18, said: “I’ve enjoyed College – I’ve really pushed myself and I have been given great opportunities here. My tutors have been friendly and supportive. I am working towards becoming a confident and knowledgeable technician.”

Centre Principal for Accrington and Rossendale College Morag Davis said: “Congratulations to the Class of 2020 at Accrington and Rossendale College, who are receiving their grades today at the end of an academic year like never before.

“We are seeing students progress onto a wide range of positive destinations, including university, Apprenticeships and employment, and we wish them every success in the future.”

Following a successful merger in 2018, Accrington and Rossendale College is now led by Nelson and Colne College, one of the highest performing colleges in the country. Students attending this College can now expect to receive the same quality that is offered at its sister college – including phenomenal teaching, strong industry links, extensive wraparound support and outstanding facilities, following a £4million redevelopment.

For classroom achievement, at all ages and levels, Accrington and Rossendale College now places in the top five colleges nationally. It is also a top 10 college nationally for student satisfaction, and now sits with its partner Nelson and Colne College as number one in Lancashire for 16-18 Advanced Apprenticeships.