Preston College

About Preston College

Preston College sits within Lancashire local authority as a state-funded, mixed sixth-form college for students aged 16 to 99, making it distinct from the secondary schools that dominate the local landscape. Among the top-performing same-type institutions in the area, Preston Muslim Girls High School leads with a ranking score of 1.06, followed by Eden Boys' School, Preston at 0.84 and Holy Cross Catholic High School at 0.75. The college itself does not appear in that peer ranking, which focuses on secondary schools, but its role as a dedicated post-16 provider means it serves a different purpose entirely. Lancashire has 90 schools of the same type overall, with eight rated Outstanding, and the nearest Outstanding-rated school is Corpus Christi Catholic High School, just half a kilometre away. Headteacher Simon Nixon leads an institution that offers a broad range of facilities including a theatre, sixth form centre, science labs, music rooms, and a chapel, alongside sports such as swimming, rugby, and martial arts. The college also runs clubs spanning art, drama, coding, and eco club, giving students plenty of ways to get involved beyond the classroom.

Academic outcomes data for Preston College is not provided in the available information, so it is not possible to report on Progress 8 scores, A-Level results, or Ofsted ratings here. The local authority average Progress 8 score for secondary schools is -0.11, which offers a rough benchmark for the area, but this figure applies to schools with younger students rather than a 16-99 college. Without specific exam results or inspection grades, parents should seek direct information from the college about its most recent performance data. The college's age range is unusually wide, extending to 99, which suggests it may offer adult education or lifelong learning programmes alongside traditional sixth-form courses. This flexibility could appeal to students who want to study at their own pace or return to education later in life, but the lack of published outcomes means families will need to ask pointed questions about progression rates and student destinations.

For families considering Preston College, the practical context is encouraging in terms of facilities and enrichment. The college has art studios, a dining hall, an astro turf pitch, and an ICT suite, along with a gymnasium and playing fields that support a strong sports programme. Clubs like gardening, chess, and book club indicate a focus on personal interests as well as academic study. The college is non-denominational in religious character, though the presence of a chapel suggests some historical or cultural link. Admissions information is not provided, so it is unclear whether the college is oversubscribed or how places are allocated. This institution will suit students who want a dedicated post-16 environment with a wide age range, plenty of extracurricular options, and a location in Preston with good local transport links. However, the absence of exam data means it is best approached with an open mind and a willingness to visit and ask for current results.

Key Details

Frequently Asked Questions About Preston College

Helpful Guides for Parents