Nearly nine hundred students have successfully completed their two-year level three vocational courses this summer at Truro and Penwith College.

The college is now one of the largest and most successful providers of higher level vocational qualifications nationally with over 300 students - or 55 per cent - achieving at least a triple distinction on BTEC level three extended diploma courses. Nearly two hundred students achieved the very highest grade possible, the triple distinction star.

The majority of students on these Diploma courses will be progressing onto degree courses in the autumn, while over four hundred students gained diplomas in occupational areas such as administration, beauty therapy, construction, hairdressing, professional cookery and light vehicle maintenance.

Mark Arnold, director of quality at the college, said: "The exceptional achievements of our students on these courses means they have the best possible progression opportunities onto university, into employment or apprenticeships.

"Key to this success is the wide range of vocational employment-linked courses on offer at the college, which includes over 20 different extended diploma courses, as well as many other full time, specialist occupational and skills-based courses. This offer ensures that students are able to choose the right course for them.

"They then benefit from excellent teaching and facilities, as recognised by Ofsted in its recent report which rated the college as outstanding. All staff here are delighted for these students and wish them well in the great progression opportunities their success has made possible."

A record 126 students successfully completed their two-year level three extended diploma courses this summer at Penwith College, with 43 students achieving at least a triple distinction, and 28 students getting a triple distinction star grade.

One of these was Emma Davies, who joined the college from Helston Community School. She said: "The health and social care course at Penwith College has been fascinating. Everyday has broadened my horizons and I have learnt so much about caring for others that I have decided to become a nurse. I have been accepted for a place at Cardiff University to study the adult nursing degree."