The Leyland campus was recently inspected by Ofsted, which reported back a glowing tribute to the students and staff at the college.

Out of seven areas inspected, all seven were given the top grade of 'outstanding'.

No other college in the country has ever received so many high grades.
Principal Michael Sheehan said: "The report is a wonderful tribute to the hard work of Runshaw's staff and students. They are quite inspirational. They have created a college to be proud of.

"This is the third successive Inspection to grade Runshaw as 'outstanding'. This consistency is due to the ethos which daily guides our every action: we treat each student as a valued individual and we do all we can to support each one to fulfil his or her maximum potential.

"Inspectors referred to it as a 'culture of high expectations' with an 'exceptionally strong focus on student enjoyment and achievement'.

"It is particularly pleasing that inspectors recognised that Runshaw is far more than just a great place to study with an 'ethos of respect throughout' and 'an exceptional range of enrichment opportunities'."

The seven areas marked as outstanding were: effectiveness of provision; capacity to improve; achievement and standards; quality of provision; teaching and learning and support for students; leadership and management; and equality of opportunity.

The inspectors were full of praise for Runshaw College students after seeing them in action in lessons and during focus groups and meetings.

They also went into the college restaurants and spoke to the students they met there.

The Ofsted report said: "At Runshaw, every learner really does matter ... the learner experience and the quality of teaching and learning are at the heart of every aspect of the college ... for many students, the exceptional support they receive has changed their lives."

Mr Sheehan added: "We wonder if the report is unique. Every aspect of the college has been graded as 'outstanding'. No areas for improvement have been cited.

"With such dedication from staff and with such delightful students to work with, I have no doubt that Runshaw will go from strength to strength."