West Cheshire College has been named as one of the top organisations in the UK for the way in which it manages its 750 staff.

The college has been shortlisted in the One to Watch – Most Improved category in the first Investors in People Awards.

The awards, which received more than 500 entries from different organisations and businesses throughout the UK, will recognise the best people management practices amongst Investors in People accredited employers, with winners being announced at a ceremony in London on Monday, June 23.

The news of the award nomination comes amid tough times for the cash-strapped college, which is having to cut dozens of jobs, with question marks over the future of the Handbridge campus in Chester.

According to Investors in People, The One to Watch – Most Improved category recognises dramatic improvements in business success which have been achieved since the employer’s previous accreditation.

The college is shortlisted alongside three other companies in the category.

Nigel Davies, principal and chief executive at the college, said: “We are delighted to have beaten hundreds of other companies to be shortlisted for this award.

“We have worked very hard over the past year to improve our processes at the college and it is fantastic to see that all of our hard work and commitment has paid off to create a better experience for both our students and employees.

“By being shortlisted for the award, it shows that our new processes and management practice are one of the best in the country, which is an outstanding achievement.”

Paul Devoy, head of Investors in People, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the number and calibre of entries received for the inaugural Investors in People Awards.

“It’s fantastic to see so many organisations nominated, demonstrating great people management practice and a commitment to staff development.

“West Cheshire College should be extremely proud.”

The college is competing for the award with the Greater Manchester Police Federation, Sandwell Women’s Aid and SANOFI, a subsidiary of a global pharmaceutical company.

There are a total of 15 categories in the awards including excellence in leadership and management and social responsibility.