Truro and Penwith College Apprentices Among Top Achievers in England
College Ranks Third for Apprenticeship Success
Apprentices at Truro and Penwith College are among the highest achievers in England, according to new Government data.
Record-Breaking Achievement Rates
Figures from the Department for Education (DfE) show that Truro and Penwith College ranked third among all General Further Education Colleges (GFECs) in England for apprenticeship success in 2023/24, with an Achievement Rate of 74.2%.
This puts the College almost 15% above the national average of 60.5%. Across the country, apprenticeship success rates have improved, rising from 54% in 2022/23, leading to a letter of thanks from Skills Minister Jaqui Smith to the education sector.
Truro and Penwith College’s success is even more impressive, with its Achievement Rate increasing from 62.7% in 2022/23 to 74.2%, outpacing national progress.
National Recognition for Excellence
Earlier this month, the College was named Apprenticeship Provider of the Year at the National Apprenticeship and Training Awards (ATAs) in Liverpool. Competing against over 600 nominations, the College won against finalists including Cardiff and Vale College, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, and Salford City College Group.
In 2024, Truro and Penwith College was also one of just five Further Education Colleges to be awarded ‘Apprenticeship Expert’ status by the DfE, allowing it to help shape national apprenticeship policy.
Ofsted Praises ‘Outstanding’ Training
Ofsted inspectors recently gave the College’s apprenticeship programme an ‘Outstanding’ rating, stating:
“Apprentices thrive in an outstanding training environment, growing in ambition and pride through training closely aligned with industry needs, supported by strong collaboration between staff and employers.”
College Leadership Response
Hayley McKinstry, Director of Partnerships and Apprenticeships at Truro and Penwith College, said:
“We are so proud of our apprentices for achieving these fantastic results. This recognition shows our commitment to delivering top-quality training and career-focused opportunities.
“These results are a testament to the hard work of our students, staff, and the brilliant employers across Cornwall who support our training programmes. Our facilities continue to grow, ensuring future learners benefit from state-of-the-art, industry-standard equipment.”
Ongoing Investment in Cutting-Edge Facilities
Recent investments in College facilities include:
- The new Valency Building in Truro
- The STEM and Health Skills Centre in Bodmin, providing high-quality training spaces for Engineering, Digital, and Health careers
- New Electric Vehicle Labs in Penzance and Truro
- A £1.7 million upgrade to Construction teaching spaces
