Our students have been celebrating GCSE results that have secured a range of exciting career and academic opportunities.

Merhawi Alem, despite being new to the UK education system, aced his exams and achieved a Grade 9 in maths, biology, chemistry, physics and business, as well as passing English.

He said: “I’m so happy!

“At first it was very, very difficult for me but with the support of my teachers and my coach I did it.”

He is now planning on studying maths, chemistry, biology and physics at A level and then going into medicine or law. 

A proud achievement

Roza Abdalla was also delighted with the high marks – (three Grade 9s, one Grade 8, one Grade 7 and a Grade 6) she achieved in her Combined Science Synergy GCSE, maths, English and business.

Her achievement was even more impressive given the fact she’s only been in the UK for two years, and never been to school here.

She said: “I feel very proud, I tried really hard. It was really fun and the teachers were really helpful.”

Stepping up towards university

Manahil Ali, who also joined the Step-Up programme after studying in a different country, was celebrating passing all her GCSEs with a mixture of Grades ranging from 5 to 9.

She said: “It’s great, I did really well and I’ll do all my A levels now.”

She will continue her studies with us by taking on A levels in chemistry, biology and psychology, with a view to getting into university.

Back on course for a physiotherapy career

Farahnaz Pouryousefi Abatari had actually already got the equivalent of the GCSEs that she needed to progress to university, but that was back in Iran.

After moving to the UK she found that she would have to essentially start again, so she signed up with us.

The 32 year old was delighted to pass her five GCSEs in combined science, science, maths and citizenship.

She said: “Although I had done these subjects before in Iran it was good to refresh my knowledge.

“It wasn’t easy but I was happy at the college and my teachers were happy to support me.”

Farahnaz’s grades have secured her a place at Leeds Beckett University, where she will study physiotherapy.

Our students have secured exciting opportunities in education and work after celebrating some fantastic results.

Our Park Lane campus was awash with excitement on Thursday 14 August as learners came in early to find out how they’d done in their A levels and a whole range of Level 3 vocational qualifications.

Among those celebrating were A level students Wiktoria Remisiewicz and Alex Gordon.

Flying high

Alex’s results, achieving an A in chemistry and physics and an A* in biology, means his goal of becoming an RAF pilot is still on track.

Declaring himself ‘very happy’, he singled out our college for praise as he reflected on his time with us.

He said:  “I’ve had a year at another college before and it’s a different world – you’re treated a lot better here, there’s a lot more respect and when people need help you get help.”

Looking ahead, he added: “I’m applying to the RAF -I’m going to be a pilot one way or another so I’ll figure that out, it’s a long process.”

Wiktoria Remisiewicz secured an A in biology and Bs in chemistry and psychology.

She said: “I did very well, better than I expected, so I’m really glad with my results, really happy.

“I’ve really liked my time in sixth form, the teachers really helped me a lot – there was a lot of motivation to do well.

“I’m now going to do a gap year to figure out what I want to do at university, and might do some travelling.”

‘Challenging, rewarding and full of opportunities’

Lots of BTEC students also had cause to celebrate, including Prince Kuruvilla, who was delighted with his results – Merit, Pass and Pass – in Applied Science. Prince is now looking forward to a gap year before continuing his education in the fields of either public service or health care.

He said: “I never thought I’d get this far but I think I’m pretty much there now with the UCAS points I’ve got.

“I’m feeling pretty good. My time here has been challenging, rewarding and full of opportunities. There are teachers who want to help you and you can go anywhere in the college to ask for help.”

Next stage in a remarkable journey

For Zuhal Akhundzada, Level 3 results day marked an important next stage in the remarkable educational journey she’s been on since fleeing Afghanistan in 2021.

Zuhal and her family, who were especially at risk due to her father’s work with the British Army, were relocated to the UK after the Taliban seized power.

For the 20 year old, who is now a step closer to her dream of forging a career in medicine, that represented a massive challenge.

But she got on track by signing up with us, first to do our Step-Up Pathway and then A levels.

Speaking after finding out her grades in A level maths, chemistry, biology and Persian language, she said: “Today is great for me and I’m thinking positively, because it’s about the results of all the hard work I’ve put in.

“My experience has been a bit unusual because in this short time since coming to the UK I’ve had to do GCSEs, A levels, with English as my second language: and everything was new.”

Although Zuhal’s results weren’t quite what she was aiming for, they were still strong enough to give her a range of options to continue her goal of going to medical school. She is now studying for her University Clinical Aptitude Test as she weighs those choices.

She said: “Nothing will stop me achieving my dream.”

Opening up a path into dentistry

Parsa Nourouzzangani, who has his heart set on a dentistry career, achieved three As in biology, chemistry and maths.

Like many students, he endured a restless wait ahead of finding out his results. He said: “I got around two hours’ sleep last night, the adrenaline has been running strong!

“I was quite stressed before collecting my results but now the pressure is relieved, and I have a path now into dentistry (hopefully in Leeds), that’s the important thing.

“These were subjects I liked and thought I’d do well in, and I’m quite happy to have got three As – though I did better in my mocks. Those three letters don’t fully represent me, but they are a start.”

Politics at Durham for Ella

Ella Gatehouse was over the moon with her grades – two A*s and an A – in Media Studies, Politics and English Language.

Ella is now preparing to study politics and international relations at the University of Durham, and will take fond memories of her time here with her. She said: “It’s been really good for my confidence and everyone’s just so supportive, it’s a really nice community.”

Praise for staff and students – plus some advice

Principal Dr Phil Mark, reflecting on the overall results, said: “It’s been a fantastic day.

“The results have been really, really positive, some of the best we’ve had for a number of years and the students are really happy.

“The success is all down to the students and the teachers; we’re so pleased with the way the students have been supported by their staff.”

He also had this message for anyone who might not have got what they wanted: “Talk to your staff members; talk to your pastoral coach or to a teacher – we’re here to support, so come in and have a conversation.

“We’re really optimistic we’ll be able to find a route through to your preferred destination, be that university or an apprenticeship, there will be lots of options.”

For an aspiring photographer there can be few more enticing backdrops than a stunning Indonesian island.

So A level Photography student Simon O’Connor jumped at the chance to hone his craft during a two-week Turing Scheme UK trip to Bali.

Simon was part of a 12-strong group that took up a placement with Think Pacific to learn all about the province’s sustainable tourism and conservation practices.

The visit also gave him a great opportunity to pursue his passion for documentary photography, and he set about capturing some powerful shots of people, businesses, street life, landscapes and more.

An inspiring sensory overload

He said: “There were so many things which surprised me on the first day there.

“Beyond the heat and sleepiness, I found a real interest in the organised chaos of the streets. An absolute overload of the senses, with colourful buildings, temples and decorations everywhere I looked.

“It was for this reason that many of my favourite pictures were actually taken when on the coach, developing an eye for the way that the streets were occupied.

“The mass of mopeds, the handiwork done by the side of the road, whole businesses on carts. It all had a particular charm to it.”

Lessons – and memories – for life

An important part of his photographic duties  involved taking shots of the businesses and conservation programmes that the students visited, and the cultural activities they took part in.

Those included traditional dance and craft workshops, working with sustainable tea company, Made Tea, and visiting the Bring Back the Light project, which is striving to preserve Bali’s fireflies.

Simon said: “The companies we visited all showed true promise for sustainable tourism in Bali.

“Overall, I found this an incredibly interesting dynamic which will be ingrained throughout my photography coursework, as well as in my photographic career.”

The visit left a similarly lasting impact on all the students who were involved. Xanda Broadfoot-Cox summed up the mood: “Visiting Bali on the international project was one of the best opportunities ever provided. I learnt so much about the vibrant culture, religion and social community.

“Every opportunity helped me to develop my awareness, independence and confidence skills. The memories and skills I developed will follow and support me for life!”

We are pleased to share that we have been rated ‘Good’ with ‘Outstanding’ features following our recent Ofsted inspection. 

Our dedicated and highly skilled staff, along with our strong collaboration with regional stakeholders, were praised for designing education programmes that align with local employment needs.

We are especially proud of the report’s strong endorsement of our mission and positive influence within the college.

“Learners and apprentices are eager to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for their future success. They have access to extensive enrichment activities and competitions across the college sites.”

This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering consistently high-quality, inclusive education that transforms lives and enriches the communities we serve.

For more details, visit Ofsted to read the full report.

Our students have crossed the Irish Sea to find out how our new college block is being built. 

Eight learners from Leeds Sixth Form College and Leeds City College flew to Belfast to visit the headquarters of modular buildings specialist, McAvoy. 

The group was treated to a tour of the factory which included a look at modules – building units – that are being made for a new sports and science block at Park Lane Campus. 

The students, who were welcomed by McAvoy’s Preconstruction Director, Stephen Clayton, also got a chance to see and control a new £650,000 combi-lift. 

A spectacular learning experience

For Karen Chimbumu, that was the highlight of a ‘spectacular’ trip. She said: “The most amazing part was getting a chance to operate the combi-lift, which is one of its kind, and also watching my fellow students operate the VR headsets which allowed them to ‘walk around’ the science and sports building. 

“We also got to virtually construct a mini-module which was great and made us feel as though we were taking part in the actual modular building project.

“Overall, the total experience was just spectacular – they all showed us great hospitality and gave us a top-tier experience.” 

The trip was led by Park Lane Campus Operations Manager, Andy Shaw and our Deputy Head of STEM, Alex Wilkinson. They were both delighted to see how much everyone got out of it. 

A unique insight into construction

Alex said: “The visit gave students a unique opportunity to see how design, manufacturing and transport all work together to make the building we will have on our campus in early 2025. We’re looking forward to taking students to visit the site when our modules arrive in the new year.” 

Mr Shaw added: “The trip gave me a whole new appreciation for the scale and craftsmanship involved in the construction of our new C Block. It was amazing to share this experience with the students and watch their excitement as they learned about the modular construction process and how innovative ideas can turn into reality.”

Modular construction involves making parts of a building at a different location and then putting them together on the development site, which can bring substantial cost and time savings.

Work on the new three storey block at Park Lane, which will create facilities for 250 more of our and Leeds City College’s students in the Science and Sport departments, began in September.

Forty of our business students recently participated in the National Skills Challenge.

Led by the Inspirational Learning Group, in partnership with NatWest, our learners worked in teams to design, promote and pitch innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Each team used their key STEM 7 skills to identify an issue that affects them, their family, or their friends and then propose a service to tackle it. These skills are a set of attitudes and behaviours that are important across all jobs and involve creative thinking, communication, problem-solving, data-driven decisions, flexibility, and collaboration.

Putting STEM 7 into practice

Throughout the challenge, the students established customer, branding and marketing strategies, business growth plans and even guidelines on how to handle a crisis.

Their hard work paid off as two teams were selected to compete in the national grand finals at NatWest’s headquarters in London. After a week of intense preparation that involved working on marketing materials, rehearsing presentations and coordinating their professional outfits, they were ready to take the stage.

Each team presented their pitch to a NatWest panel of judges, with the four stand-out entries chosen to present to the whole event in the afternoon. Although our teams weren’t picked for the final presentations, they cheered on those who were and took the opportunity to reflect on their achievements.

Outstanding ambassadors

Judith Fish, our Deputy Head of Year 12, said: “It was a great day attending the National Skills Challenge grand finals. The students worked hard and were able to demonstrate how you can embed the key STEM 7 skills into non-science subjects.

“They acted as brilliant ambassadors for the college, showing resilience, teamwork, and professionalism throughout.” 

The students also attended a careers talk from NatWest’s graduate scheme and heard details, from apprenticeship employees, about the job opportunities available at the company.

All kinds of academic and career pathways have opened up for students celebrating their GCSE results.

Among those from our college who are looking forward to taking their next steps after opening their result papers on Thursday 22 August, was Step-Up Pathway student Constance Mitchell.

Constance’s results mean she can now edge closer to her goal of becoming a nurse by enrolling for a T Level at our sister institution, Leeds City College.

A step-up to a nursing career

The 17 year old said: “I’d convinced myself I was going to fail but I did really well and got the grades I needed, so I’m looking forward to doing my T Level at Quarry Hill.”

She also has no hesitation in recommending the Step-Up programme to anyone: “It’s been really great, I’ve made friends for life here and not just the students, the staff as well. It’s been a really good experience.

“Step-Up is like a second chance and a reminder that your first GCSE results aren’t the be-all and end-all, there are options – like this – to fall back on.”

Lots of other learners – including 38 year old former soldier Kenny Knott, who is aiming to become a history teacher – also had cause to celebrate at Leeds City College on the day. You can read their stories here.

Travis Daly started his A levels back in 2022 after studying the Step-up Pathway course at Leeds Sixth Form College, which enables students aged 16 to 18 to gain five or more GCSEs. 

We spoke with Travis on GCSE results day in 2022 where he was full of praise for the sixth form college for its tremendous support.

“I owe the college so much – my teachers were contacting me almost every day to ask me how I was getting on. I’m so happy to know I’m now going to be doing A levels, it’s the best feeling.” 

After passing with flying colours, Travis had his heart set on staying at the sixth form to study law and politics. 

Two years later, Travis is now celebrating his A level results, achieving two Bs in History and Politics and a C in Law. He’s also secured a job as a legal assistant at a property law firm in Leeds.

We caught up with Travis to hear more about his time at the college.

Tell us about yourself. What made you decide to study A levels at Leeds Sixth Form? 

Leeds Sixth Form College gave me the tools and support from the Step-Up Pathway course that allowed me to consider college as a viable option. It wasn’t even an option for me to go anywhere else, which demonstrates the need for more step-up opportunities.

How do you think your course has developed you for the future? 

The courses provided me with a wider understanding of topics I am interested in. My politics A level inspired me to work for former MP Andrea Jenkyns, while my A level in law helped me further my understanding of the subject and even inspired my current job as a legal assistant.

I did a conveyancing work experience placement whilst at college, which helped me realise that conveyancing could be a genuine profession for me. As soon as I left, I found a person from a job agency who recommended me to a big legal firm in Leeds. I put on a suit and got the job!

What skills have you learned working at the law firm? 

I work with lenders to help people who want to purchase a house or equity release, so I’ve learned a lot about lease extensions, freehold acquisitions and dealing with solicitors, purchasers and banks who lend money to purchasers.

Tell us about a course highlight

Having the ability to widen my knowledge of topics I was already interested in was a key highlight. Having the chance to ask questions in a friendly environment was also something I appreciated.

Did you face any challenges or barriers during your course?

I faced no barriers during my studies. The college provided me with the finances to get to college and helped where they could.

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying A levels at Leeds Sixth Form?

Do it. Leeds Sixth Form College is at the heart of Yorkshire’s most vibrant city and there’s no reason not to go for it.

It is absolutely normal to feel like you’re not going to succeed or get a decent grade. However, if you put in the work and revise and revise even more, you will get what you deserve.

And lastly, what’s next for you?

As for my future, I think I will continue working at the legal firm and work towards becoming a licensed conveyancer. I think I may reconsider university later down the line. Fortunately, there are so many options nowadays that you can progress in life without a degree. Who knows!

‘Bragging rights for life!’

That’s what 18 year old Toby Oughton is claiming after becoming one of our very first students to secure a place at Oxford University.

Toby celebrated his achievement – secured with As in Philosophy and Psychology and a B in Fine Art – with a shout of joy and a lap of the Park Lane campus on Thursday 15 August.

‘Unbelievably happy’

He said: “I’m so unbelievably happy, I’ve been so stressed for the last few months.

“It’s not been easy and there’s been a  lot of work, but it paid off. I‘m going to Oxford and I’m one of the first from here to do so – so I get bragging rights for life!

“I will be getting some friends together and having a drink to celebrate.”

He is now looking forward to starting at Oxford, where he will study philosophy and theology, this autumn.

Toby’s story crowned a day of success for students at both Leeds Sixth Form College and Leeds City College, who were completing A levels, T Levels and a whole range of other Level 3 technical courses.

Others celebrating included Dawud Fiaz, whose results – two As and an A* – mean he will be heading to Kings College London later this year to study social sciences. He said: “I thought I’d got Cs so I’m really pleased! This has made my year.”

Praise for an ‘amazing’ educational experience

Digital and IT T Level student, Loukas Arthington, was one of a number who have decided that taking up a degree apprenticeship with a local company will be the best next step for their career.

Health, plus Education and Early Years T Level students, meanwhile, came into Quarry Hill campus to celebrate their results.

Leah Griffiths’ distinction in her Health T Level – which includes a placement in a hospital or healthcare setting – means she has secured a place at the University of Leeds, where she will study adult nursing.

Reflecting on her course and time with Leeds City College, she said: “It’s been absolutely amazing, it’s such a good opportunity to learn what you actually want to do.”

Leah also said how valuable her industry placement, which included working on a a variety of different wards, had been.

That was a view echoed by Patryk Aniolkowski, who achieved a distinction in his T Level Education and Childcare course. Patryk said: “I most enjoyed going to Spain for a two week placement where we had the opportunity to teach in a Spanish school.”

“Great people, great place!”

A level student, Jason Cheung, was also full of praise for his experience at Leeds Sixth Form College.

Jason, who achieved As in History, Geography and Maths and will now study geology at the University of Leeds, said: “It has been a great two years and I’ve met some inspiring teachers, especially my geography teacher who inspired me to go down this career path.

Reflecting on this year’s results and all the hard work that went in to achieving them, Leeds Sixth Form College Principal Phil Mark said: “Results day is a momentous occasion for our students, allowing them to celebrate the hard work and resilience they’ve shown throughout the year. 

“I am incredibly proud of their achievements and excited to see them take the next step toward their futures.”