Newcastle Sixth Form College is celebrating after A Level results improved again this year with 100% pass rate achieved in 24 subjects and 85 percent of students choosing to progress to university, a third of which are Russell Group. 
For some, it is the opportunity to move away from the region and experience life elsewhere, while others are sticking to their roots and choosing to stay locally instead.
George Andrews, 18, has accepted an offer from Cambridge University to study Natural Science in September after achieving A*A*AA grades in A Level Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and AS Further Maths.
George, from Newburn, has always enjoyed science and maths and hopes to follow a career in scientific research once he has completed his studies.
George said: “Cambridge is one of the top universities in the country, so I am really pleased that I will be studying there.
“It’s been a lot of work, but all worthwhile. I’d like to go into scientific research after when I’ve finished my degree, but I’m not sure exactly which area I would like to specialise in. Studying science gives you a lot of different career options so I’m just excited about the future.”
Elin Sydenham, 19, from Whitley Bay, came to Newcastle Sixth Form College after first studying A Levels at her school sixth form. Realising that she wanted more independence and a fresh start, Elin enrolled at Newcastle Sixth Form College and has just achieved the A and two B’s she needs to go to Newcastle University to study Civil Engineering.
Elin, who also plays netball for a local team, said: “It wasn’t until I came to Newcastle Sixth Form College that I really started to knuckle down and work hard at my A Levels.
“I really thrived in a more independent environment and I made lots of new friends. The teachers were really supportive and I loved studying the subjects I chose.
“The possibilities with Engineering are endless. I really enjoy the infrastructure and sustainability elements of Civil Engineering, so I am thinking about maybe specialising in those areas.”
Realising Opportunities Locally
Jenny Olsen and Josh Horne have both chosen to study locally following their A Levels. Jenny has been accepted to Newcastle University’s PARTNERS Programme, while Josh will also be studying at Newcastle University through the Realising Opportunities Programme. Both allow eligible students to get a taste of what university life would be like at Newcastle prior to joining.
Josh said: “The Realising Opportunities Programme is a great way of getting an introduction to university and knowing if it’s going to be right for you. I’m excited about starting my studies in Law; I’d like to be a solicitor in the future, but the possibilities are limitless.”
Jenny added: “PARTNERS has been a good opportunity to get to know Newcastle University really well before starting in September, and I feel much more prepared for the change.
“I wanted to stay in the North East as I really enjoy living here. It’s affordable and Newcastle is great for students – why go anywhere else?”
Some students are taking a well-earned break from studying, before taking up their place at university.
Sean O’Connell, 19, has decided to work for a year after achieving A*AAA grades in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics and AS Further Mathematics, before taking up his place at Durham University to study Science.
Sean said: “The last two years has been a lot of hard work, all worth it, but hard work all the same. I already have my place at Durham University, which I deferred for a year, as I just wanted a bit of time out of academia before starting my degree.
“I plan on working full time for a year in Newcastle which will give me lots of important transferable skills, as well as ‘real life’ experience, all of which will really help me in the future when it comes to starting my career.”
Sean chose to study A Levels at Newcastle Sixth Form College because of the state-of-the-art facilities and modern learning environment.
He said: “The science equipment and facilities are second to none at Newcastle Sixth Form College, so I knew it would be the right choice of college for me.
“I’ve made so many new friends and the teachers have been great. I have really enjoyed my time there.”
Gerard Garvey, Newcastle Sixth Form College Principal said he was thrilled with this year’s results.
“Congratulations to all of our students, who have worked tremendously hard in order to gain places at universities, win apprenticeships or secure meaningful employment after college,” said Gerard.
“We have had some excellent results again this year, with 24 of our subjects achieving pass rates of 100% including subjects which universities consider key, such as Economics and Maths. This really is testament to students’ hard work and the support and expertise of the Newcastle Sixth Form College staff.
“We’ve had another great year and we believe that with our state-of-the-art facilities, supportive and experienced staff and a determination to succeed, there is nothing that our students cannot achieve.”
