A ‘UNIQUE’ vocational college in Sandiway is one of the best places to work in the UK, and that’s official.

Petty Pool College, which runs vocational courses for students with learning difficulties, has been named in the top five best education and training companies to work for in the country by leading employee engagement specialist, Best Companies.

Petty Pool also runds an outdoor education centre, and a day service linking young people to leisure, vocational opportunities, and community activities.  

It has also been placed in the top 50 companies to work for across all sectors in the Northwest, and in the top 100 nationwide.   

Selected staff from Petty Pool travelled to the capital for a ritzy awards ceremony at Evolution London in the heart of Battersea Park on Thursday, November 2.

A special accolade was given to housekeeper, Sharon Young, who has worked at Petty Pool for over 30 years, having started her time there as a student.

Petty Pool CEO, Sally Garratt, said: "I’m so proud of the team at Petty Pool who are leading the way nationally across the education and training sector.

"It was fantastic to attend the awards and be inspired by other organisations which are thriving in their areas.

 “Set in 40 acres of woodland, Petty Pool is a unique working environment and it’s really important our staff team are happy, inspired and motivated, as this directly impacts the quality of experience for our learners."

Inspirational leadership and professional growth opportunities for staff members were two factorswhere the organisation scored especially well. 

Best Companies CEO and founder, Jonathan Austin, said: “Our Best Companies to Work for Lists recognise and celebrate all the organisations who are helping to make the world a better workplace.

“The lists represent the commitment these organisations show every day to their employees, and how they’ve put investing in their people strategies at the forefront of their company culture.

“Companies that prioritise their employees and organisational health will inevitably find success.

“To make the Best Companies List is a remarkable accomplishment, and Petty Pool should be proud of all they have achieved this year.”