A spokesperson for the college said: "The majority of our students study on a part-time basis and all are actively encouraged to progress to either advanced study or employment. The college's encouraging full-time student retention rates must therefore be viewed in the context of its catchment areas."
John Wheatley attributes the fact that it is second in the "league table" of students completing their studies to a package of support including practical advice, finance and child care. "More importantly, the college says, "is ensuring that extended learning support and flexible learning opportunities are available to those students who need it most. Added to this, programmes are tailored to build in continuous support from both teaching and support staff."