The college, which unveiled a new £22m building last year, is also predicting a 20 percent hike in the number of admissions this year as it cements itself as one of the leading sixth form colleges in the North East.
A record percentage of its students are going to the UK’s most prestigious universities after gaining excellent grades in both their A-Levels and International Baccalaureate programmes this week.
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 local instead.
Kalvin Collings, 17, is going to Durham University to study Medicine after gaining two A* and two A grades in Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry and Physics.
The teenager, from North Shields, is the first person in his family to go to university. He hopes to one day qualify as a doctor.
“My hope has always been to get into Durham University, so I’m delighted,” said Kalvin.
“I didn’t have a backup plan, so I’m relieved. I needed three As to get in, so I thought that if I did four A-Levels, the chances of getting three As was pretty high.
“I live in the North East and don’t really want to move away. People in this region are so down to earth – so I would love to study and then work here.”
He added: “I’m not sure what kind of medicine I want to specialise in, but I’m ready for the challenge. In my career, I want to make an impact on people’s lives and I think being a doctor is a great way to help people.”
Michael Forrest, 18, from South Shields, is also going to Durham University, where he wants to study law.
The keen runner and Newcastle United fan said: “Durham is a great university, so I have my heart set on that. Doing a law degree is very competitive, so I am delighted I got the A* and two As to get in.
“It’s been a lot of work, but all worthwhile. My ambition is to be a barrister, but I’m not sure which area I would like to specialise in. I have looked into both human rights and criminal law, but haven’t made up my mind yet. I’m just excited about the future.”
And Melissa Denker, 18, is off to Glasgow University to study medicine after receiving impressive grades.
College Principal Steve Gibson 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 and go on to jobs in their chosen field,” said Steve.
“We have had some excellent results this year, which is testament to their hard work and the support and expertise of our outstanding teaching staff.
“It’s been a great year in the new building, and our predictions are that admissions will be up again in September. We believe that with our great facilities and faculty, and a determination to succeed, there is nothing that our students cannot achieve.”
People can find out more about Newcastle Sixth Form College and the range of subjects available by calling 0191 272 1001, emailing enquiries@newcastlesixthformcollege.ac.uk or going to www.newcastlesixthformcollege.co.uk
