THE mood at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College was as sunny as the sweltering weather as students discovered the results of two years’ hard work.
Envelopes were anxiously prised open as weeks of anxious waiting came to an end and the Southampton campus was bathed in smiles as well as sunshine as students celebrated.
Isaac Linklater, 18, from Shirley, is heading to Cambridge University to study Land Economics after achieving A*, A and A respectively in A Level Maths, Economics and Accounting. “I’m pretty happy with his results,” he said. “The teachers helped with applications, and my UCAS personal statement and were all really nice, it was a pleasure to learn here.”
Isaac, who said his degree will give the basis for a career in law, finance or property surveyance., said his ambition is to help businesses be more sustainable.
Ruby Wheaton was delighted with a Distinction in Musical Theatre. The 18-year-old, from West End, is going to the Brighton Academy drama school to study Musical Theatre and hopes to make London’s West End one day. “The support was really good and I was able to go to either of my teachers whenever I need help,” she said.
Her friend and fellow Performing Arts student Mia Wain, pictured above, left, with Ruby, with jumped with joy at her results. The 18-year-old, from Millbrook, is going on to Bognor Regis University to study Education with Special Needs and Disabilities.
She feels the performing arts course has given her the confidence to speak to people and do well in her chosen career. “The course was filled with fun and everyone was so supportive, friends who became family,” she said.
Ornela Osake, 18, from Maybush, was overjoyed with an A* in Fine Art, and A in Psychology and C in Business. “I’m really happy as I worked hard,” she said. “I definitely improved as a person throughout the course and enjoyed interacting with people in my class with similar interests.
“The teachers and the support staff at the college were supportive and helped me work through my personal challenges so she could focus on studying.” She is going on to Southampton University to study Psychology and says she wants to care for people and support young people or the elderly.
Hugh Coomer, 19, from Romsey, said he was shocked at his Distinction in T Level Health and Adult Nursing. “I loved the practical and theory aspects of the course, as well as the work experience, and it has helped me get to university to study podiatry,” he said.
“I appreciate the staff in Learning Support, who were always there when I needed them. The college was a really great environment and helped me to succeed.”
Deputy Principal Alex Williamson said it was a privilege to watch students’ hard work translate into such powerful results. “The true strength of our amazing community is seeing that student dedication unlock such exciting next steps, whether that means progressing to Russell Group universities, joining prestigious arts programmes, or launching straight into inspiring careers,” she said.
“While achievements like the 100 per cent high grades in the Digital T Level, 100 per cent pass rates in Visual and Performing Arts and Sports Coaching – and the T Level in Adult Nursing – are just a few of our headline statistics, they perfectly capture the ambition of our students.
“They have truly earned these successes, supported throughout their journey by our tireless teaching and incredible support staff.”
Executive Principal Andy Grant added: “Congratulations to all our students, all of us have seen the work they put in and that has paid off with these results. It’s always gratifying for us to see our students take the next step in their career journey and I wish them well with their careers, whether it be in employment, higher apprenticeships or university.”
He said the college is on hand to help any student who didn’t get the grades they were expecting. “We are very keen to support any student needing help with the University Clearing process and they must not hesitate to get in touch with us over the coming days and weeks if they need to,” he said.