Operations at Carlisle College have been praised as work on its new advanced manufacturing centre nears completion.

Leaders of the city centre college say they are “delighted” by the findings of a new inspection carried out by education regulator Ofsted.

Inspectors judge that the college remains a “good” provider which has continued to make impressive improvements since its last inspection in 2009.

Ofsted finds that students and apprentices continue to receive a good education and training.

Inspector Andrea Machell added: “You provide excellent care, support and guidance, which learners and apprentices value greatly, and which ensures that they make good progress.”

Achievement rates are high and above those of similar providers, inspectors found. The large majority of students and apprentices are well prepared for work too, Ofsted noted.

The college’s corporation board was also praised.

“Board members know the college well and hold senior leaders to account very effectively,” the Ofsted report states.

It adds: “As a result, there has been steady improvement in the vast majority of subject areas.”

The college was also praised for the way its courses, programmes and facilities had been developed to meet local and regional needs well with a “good focus on an employer-led curriculum”.

It was also noted that college staff know students well and pastoral care is excellent.

Areas of improvement were also identified during Ofsted’s two-day inspection in November. They centre on helping students get better results in GCSE English and maths and functional skills.

David Carter, the college’s chair of governors, said: “The findings from Ofsted are testament to the hard work and dedication of all our staff and students. “

Deputy principal Elaine Price said: “We are absolutely delighted with the findings which highlight how well placed Carlisle College is in meeting the needs of students and local employers.

“To see the progress and success of our students throughout their time at Carlisle College is highly rewarding as they go on to achieve their ambitions, something which Ofsted identified throughout their visit.”

The findings from Ofsted come as the finishing touches are being made to the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Centre (AMC).

Using £1 million of funding from Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, the AMC will enhance facilities in engineering.

It follows over £30 million of investment over the last 10 years which has transformed the college’s city centre campus.

The latest developments come as Carlisle College looks to pursue a merger with Newcastle-based NCG instead of a recommendation to join forces with Lakes College at Lilly-hall.

Last week a new review of further education in Cumbria revealed concerns about the financial health of Carlisle College.