The colleges course leader for printing Dave Gardner said that 18 of the 20 students passed the test, which was part of the health and safety module, with an average mark of 79%.

The C&G students at Plymouth will have to take another two online exams before the end of their academic year.

I think that online assessment reinforces the courses integrity. Its nice to know that its marked by City & Guilds straight away, said Gardner.

The 5261 course has been able to be taught by print colleges since September, after the qualifications watchdog approved it in July.

Gardner said: It has been greatly improved. The terms used are all modern, so its much better.

C&Gs 5261 level two and three pathways include Pre-press, Desktop Publishing, Machine Printing, Mechanised Print Finishing and Binding and Carton Manufacture. Level three also has Print Administration.