Higher Achievements at Derby College

Derby College is celebrating an increase in the A-level pass rate and in the number of students achieving higher grades A* to B.

A record 32% of A level students at the college's Joseph Wright sixth form centre gained the higher grades and the overall pass rate was just over 97% - up 1% on last year. Points per entry has also increased to 29.5 compared with 27.5 last year.

Of the 23 subjects taken, 15 report 100% pass rate including sociology, chemistry, law, English language, film studies and media.

Head of Joseph Wright Stacey Adams said: "We are delighted with these results on all fronts. The majority of our students will now be heading off to their first choice university and the team of teaching and support staff will be on hand to support anyone who needs to clarify the situation and make decisions on their next step."

"It has been important for everyone collecting their results to realise that there are a wide range of options still open to them.

"We therefore have information available for students about apprenticeships, clearing and the College's Higher Education study programmes."

Sam Colson (18) from Ilkeston came to Derby College to study A levels after taking GCSE's through distance learning – working from home. He achieved A* in History and A grades in Law and Business and has secured a place at the University of Nottingham to study Law.

Sam said: "I wasn't achieving what I wanted at school so opted for home schooling but really suited me. I wanted to do A levels at College though and JWC has really suited me. My ultimate goal is to work in international humanitarian law."

Isaac Bamford (18) from Belper is celebrating three B grades in Law, Geography and Business. He has gained a place to study Business and Economics at Liverpool University but is now planning to defer for a year to consider his options which include a Higher Apprenticeship in Business.

He said: "I didn't expect to do this well so I want to think about my future options.

He went to College with mum Louise who added: "I am so pleased for him. He may have slept well but we didn't!. My daughter came here and did a masters at Liverpool University so Derby College has been great for our family."