CRAVEN College has been ranked the top provider for overall apprenticeship achievement in the north of England for the second year running.

The college, in Skipton, had 320 students successfully complete apprenticeships last year, and also placed third out of 230 providers nationally.

Craven has consistently been in the top ten providers of apprenticeships for the past seven years.

Richard Swires, apprenticeships manager, said: “I’m delighted that despite the turbulence of the apprenticeship Reforms we have been able to maintain our national position.

“It reflects the commitment and adaptability of all those involved in the delivery of apprenticeships and the strong support of our employers. We look forward to supporting many more young people into training and employment.”

Andrew Cropley, principal at Craven College, added “Our apprenticeships team, led by Richard Swires, is outstanding.

“As a relatively small College working with many small and medium sized businesses, this makes our achievement even greater.

“I am proud of the excellent support that our team give to both Apprentices and to the businesses themselves.”

TaxAssist Accountants, run by husband-and-wife team Dave and Julia Forrester, has worked closely with the college in recent years, taking on apprentices at its branches in Bingley, Ilkley and Keighley.

Mr Forrester said: “Our Craven College Apprentices have made a huge and beneficial impact on our accountancy practice over the last eight years.

“The apprentices have enjoyed exam success as well as personal development and our clients have benefitted from their service.”