Bolton College best FE College nationally, say Employers

The latest results from the Employer Satisfaction Survey, carried out by the Skills Funding Agency, have revealed that Bolton College’s overall employer satisfaction has scored an impressive 9.6 out of a possible 10 points.

This result, which is up from the previous year’s score of 9.3, is based on responses from over 170 employers for whom Bolton College delivered training that was wholly or partly funded by the Skills Funding Agency.

On a scale where 0 is ‘poor’ and 10 is ‘excellent’, Bolton College scored an average of 9.6 across a range of areas including flexibility of delivery, clarity of communication and overall efficiency. Certain aspects even exceeded the score of 9.6, such as professionalism of staff and probability of recommending the College to another employer.

St Bernard’s R C Primary School is one of many local organisations to work with Bolton College in their recruitment of an apprentice.  “We are very happy with the service; College staff have been excellent. Thanks again to the team at Bolton College for their efficiency and always listening to our needs. We look forward to working with you again next year.”

The result, which was highlighted in the Times Education Supplement, demonstrates Bolton College’s dedication to its strategic priority of engaging with employers and helping them to develop their businesses through provision of responsive and flexible training solutions. The College has worked with over 600 businesses in the last year and has recently produced a suite of leaflets promoting their extensive offer of sector-specific training.

Local accountancy firms Cowgill Holloway LLP and Derbyshire & Co have also enlisted the help of Bolton College to enhance their workforce. Christine Derbyshire, of Derbyshire & Co, said: “Very happy with Bolton College. When I want another apprentice, they will be my first port of call.”

The College’s track record of building successful partnerships with local employers is reflected in the success of the apprentices themselves. In 2015, two of Bolton College’s Level 3 apprentices were formally recognised at the Bolton & Bury Business Awards. Another was Highly Commended by both the Association of Colleges and the National Apprenticeship Service, and was latterly invited to the Houses of Parliament in celebration of his success.

Lorraine Groch, Vice Principal for Enterprise at Bolton College, said: “We are thrilled to have come out 7^th overall, out of over 500 training providers, and the very top for all general FE colleges. Not only do we pride ourselves on the high quality of our training, but also on the support and advice we give to employers throughout the training process; their particular needs and interests are our number one priority. We work with each organisation to offer a fully bespoke service which is responsive to their feedback. 

“We remain fully committed to facilitating the growth of the local economy by working with businesses throughout Bolton and Greater Manchester and helping them meet to their objectives. We strive for continuous improvement, so we are delighted to have increased last year’s score from 9.3 to 9.6.”