Waltham Forest College has been ranked first in the borough for post-16 recruitment, a position it has never held before.
The ranking, based on 2025/26 Vector data, puts the Forest Road college ahead of every other post-16 option in Waltham Forest. It got there without offering A Levels at present, which the college says shows how many young people are now choosing vocational and technical routes.
Principal and CEO Jane Button said: "Reaching the number one position in the borough for post-16 recruitment is a significant milestone for our college."
She said the credit belongs to the people who work there: "This achievement belongs to our staff. Every colleague plays a part in creating the experience, opportunities and sense of belonging that encourage young people to choose us."
The college puts a lot of weight on working with employers and on practical learning, so that students understand the careers ahead of them and what will be expected of them in the workplace.
Looking ahead, Ms Button said: "Our ambition is not simply to be the first-choice college locally, but to ensure that every student who chooses us receives an outstanding education."
The college says it will build stronger links between education and industry and shape its courses around what employers need. The aim is to prepare students for whatever comes next, whether that is a job, an apprenticeship, further study or higher education.
