SGS College, which has campuses in Stroud and Bristol, achieved 85 per cent for overall student satisfaction in the National Student Survey, securing first place for 2021 in Bristol and third place in the whole of the South West.

This follows a place in the top 10 per cent of UK institutions in the 2020 National Student Survey.

Sara-Jane Watkins, SGS principal, said: "I am delighted at the latest NSS results, despite the ongoing challenges the sector faces in the wake of a national lockdown. I'm thrilled this year that SGS is yet again nearly 10 per cent higher than the national sector average of 75 per cent. Our results complement the exceptional online delivery our staff have demonstrated, with the same care, commitment and dedication they provide in a face-to-face setting.

"Throughout the pandemic, we have seen colleges and universities from across the country battle with the ever-changing and often last-minute amendments to marking and assessment. With 85 per cent of our students agreeing that our marketing and assessment has been fair, this achievement reflects the hard work of our industry expert staff and exceptional pastoral and wellbeing team who have supported students to achieve their personal best."

At the start of the pandemic, SGS moved studies online, ensuring all students could continue to reach their full potential and have access to sector-leading teaching and learning.

SGS's digital-first approach resonated throughout departments, with both staff and students working collaboratively to ensure their courses thrived in the online world, resulting in 88 per cent of students feeling that staff valued their views and opinions on the course.

SGS ranked highly among all South West providers. The college was third for overall student satisfaction, just behind the prestigious Norland College in Bath and the University of Bath.