MORE than 1,000 students from Priestley College are looking forward to university apprenticeships and employment following A-level results day.
The Latchford college's new principal, James Gresty, said he felt inspired by the dedication shown by young people and tutors during such unprecedented times.
"This has been a year like no other, but here at Priestley we feel like we had a set of students like no other and we could not be more proud of them," he said.
"Alongside accessing remote learning, pastoral care and careers guidance during lockdown, they have also been supporting their families and friends and making valued contributions to their communities.
"We do, however, share the concerns of our colleagues across the country about the negative impact the method of calculating grades has had on some students."
Pupil Meg Byrom will be heading to Cambridge University after collecting A* grades in geography and English, along with an A in politics.
READ > Recap of A-level results day in Warrington
She said: "Going to Cambridge had never been on my radar until I joined Priestley.
"Studying on programmes like The Graduate was so influential in my decision making and my tutors supported me all the way."
Another student heading to Cambridge is former Sir Thomas Boteler pupil Damien Dooley who will be studying natural sciences.
During his course he became best friends with Jordan Holdsworth and the both earned A* grades in chemistry and maths and an A in physics, as well as high grades in the Extended Project Qualification.
"We met on the starter day at Priestley and then again on our first day and have been friends since," explained Jordan, who has accepted a place at Warwick University.
Priestley students have also benefited from extra reassurance thanks to taking AS-levels at the end of their first year, which can be used as evidence for any student choosing to appeal their final grades.
The college is supporting any student who wants to appeal, secure a grade review or take a resit exam.
Priestley’s former principal, Matthew Grant, added: "Although students didn’t take exams this year, these A-level and vocational results are the culmination of years of dedication from our students.
"They are not, nor have they ever been, something that just happens in the last few months of their second year.
"Every one of them should be proud of their achievements, as should their parents, carers and tutors."
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