Students have been finding out what their next options are after opening their GCSE results.

Many, including among those on our Step-Up Pathway, have had cause to celebrate and start planning for the next stage of their educational journey.

Those included 18 year old Diya Eman, who was understandably “proud and happy” after excelling in her five GCSEs in combined science, business, maths and English.

For Diya, who joined the Step-Up Pathway course just after moving to the UK from Pakistan, the achievement was particularly well-earned as she had to quickly master English to succeed in her studies.

Now looking forward to starting A levels at Leeds Sixth Form College, she said: “It was a big challenge since English was not my first language, and it was hard to adapt.

“But the support at college was amazing. The teachers taught really well, gave great constructive feedback, and genuinely helped me achieve everything I have today.

“Everyone made me feel welcome and guided me literally every step of the way.”

After A levels, Diya is aiming to go on to pursue a career in medical sciences.

Praise for ‘excellent support’ and a friendly community

Maisie Dean is also looking forward to continuing her education with the college, after gaining the five GCSEs – in English language, maths and combined science – she did through the Step-Up programme.

Maisie’s time at college represented a very different experience from the preceding years, when she had been home schooled – but it was one she embraced.

Declaring herself very happy with her results, the 17 year old said: “I struggled with mainstream education; however, with support, I have found a learning environment that suits me and not only have I been able to do my exams but I have really flourished throughout the year I have been here.

“I have found the support that I have received excellent at college, the tutors are caring and enabled me to reach my full potential.

“The best thing about studying at Leeds Sixth Form College is the community, there is always someone there if you need them and it has a warm and friendly atmosphere.”

Maisie hopes to progress to university after A levels.

A birthday to remember for aspiring engineer Hasti

Another very happy Step-up student on results day was Hasti Ghadirian, who was celebrating her 19^th birthday at the same time she received her results.

After achieving her five GCSEs, Hasti is now looking forward to doing an Access to HE Diploma in Engineering.

She said: “I really, really, really enjoyed this college and I’m really happy I was here last year and will be here next year, as well.”

She also had this message for anyone worried about taking on GCSEs: “I promise you it’s not hard, you can do it!”

Top grades for Tre

Step-Up student Tre Sura, meanwhile, got the very best kind of surprise when she opened her results to find a flurry of 5, 6 and 7 grades greeting her.

Eighteen year old Tre, who moved to moved to the UK from Germany a year ago, admitted that those results exceeded her expectations and were “way better than expected”.

She said: “It was very nerve-racking, obviously, but when I opened that envelope it was just relief.”

Those results will help Tre take her next steps towards a career in aviation.

Students are looking forward to starting new challenges in higher education after achieving impressive exam results.

Many of our learners had cause to celebrate when they discovered how they had fared in their Level 3 courses on Thursday 13 August.

Among them was 30 year old Jaweria Nasim, who went from nearly dropping out to excelling in her Access to HE Science course.

As a single mother facing financial difficulties and limited support outside college, Jaweria navigated multiple personal hurdles alongside her studies.

Great support helps Jaweria land university place

She said: “Returning to intensive study while balancing healthcare work and family life was definitely a challenge. Overcoming it required building strong time-management skills, staying disciplined with my goals, and leaning on the great support systems and tutors available at college.”

Jaweria went on to win the Future Navigator category at this year’s Star Award, in recognition of her resilience and hard work throughout the year.

She has now secured a place to study Biomedical Science at the University of York. 

She said: “Having worked in healthcare, I developed a real passion for understanding the biological mechanisms behind human disease.

“The University of York offers world-class research facilities and great career pathways, making it the perfect environment to bridge my hands-on clinical experience with my academic ambitions.”

Just rewards for an outstanding effort

For Mykhailo Herasymenko, who fled to the UK from the horrors of war in Ukraine four years ago, his results were vindication for the amazing effort he put into achieving his A levels.

The 19 year old, who has got the grades he needs to study Law at the University of Manchester, is based in Lincoln so had to complete a four hour round trip to get to Leeds Sixth Form College each day.

Celebrating his A in law, B in history and C in politics, he said: “I’m happy with my results because I’ve got into the university I wished for. 

 “I’ve loved this college, all of the teachers were so supportive, helpful and encouraging.”

Referring to his unusual commute, he added: “It took a very long time and it was a bit stressful, because of the train often being cancelled or deblayed.

“But anyway I found it quite peaceful, I had a long time to revise, study and even sleep!”

Caring teachers help Kodi overcome fears

Another student who will be progressing onto higher education is Kodi Horan, who with her A level results – two As and a B –  will be going on to study Law at the University of Manchester. 

The 20 year old said: “I’m excited to leave Leeds Sixth Form College and start a new chapter, but it’s also bittersweet as I’m leaving a place after two years of dedicating my time towards learning and meeting new people.

“I had a lot to figure out as I was going along. My parents hadn’t completed A levels so it was the unknown that made it scary.

“The support on my course has been amazing all round. Every member of staff I spoke to was encouraging and always willing to help. Their guidance gave me confidence that I could succeed in every step.

“It’s obvious that the teachers genuinely care about your success, whether it’s through  offering you assistance or motivating you to be more independent.”

Aiming for the top

Peniel Kumah has had to face many challenges since moving to the UK from Ghana – not least in mastering English.

But he has overcome them all, and is now looking forward to starting a mechanical engineering course at the University of Leeds after achieving three As and a B in his A levels.

He will be the first member of his family to attend university.

He said: “There were a few times I struggled to communicate and I felt lonely sometimes. It felt like I was starting life all over again but now I feel way better and I hope it keeps on getting better.”

After university, Peniel is aiming to work for an esteemed car company, like Rolls Royce or Ferrari, or even NASA.

Leeds Sixth Form College’s new building has scooped a national award for its innovative modular construction. 

The new campus building, called C Block, was named ‘Project of the Year for Education’ for modular building specialists McAvoy at the ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ awards in May.

Modular construction involves constructing buildings off-site, in individual building units – that are put together on site for efficient installation. 

The new three storey block, which opened in September 2025 at our Park Lane campus, is home to the School of Applied Science and School of Sport Science and Exercise. The building has created facilities for over 250 students including laboratories, a fitness studio and large theatre space.

The theatre is a welcome addition, and has been used for our new ‘Ask the Expert’ series -welcoming local employers, universities and apprenticeship providers to deliver interactive sessions to our students. 

Made in Belfast- for Leeds Sixth Form College

The new C Block building first started construction in September 2024 where it was made at McAvoy’s headquarters in Belfast and then put together on-site at Park Lane campus.  

In December 2024, eight learners from Leeds City College and Leeds Sixth Form College flew to Belfast to view the headquarters of McAvoy where they had the opportunity to see the modules – building units – that were being made for the new block at Park Lane campus. 

One student who attended said: “The trip showed me the wide range of careers available in construction and even inspired me to explore a new hobby, like mini crafts. It has made me seriously consider a future career in project management.”

The Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) awards brings the industry together to celebrate the most forward-thinking, impactful projects over the past year and spotlight the people and organisations pushing construction into the future. 

McAvoy were praised at the MMC awards for the “first class engagement and involvement from young people and the local community” in the project. 

Phil Mark, Principal at Leeds Sixth Form College, said: “Since the new building opened, we have been able to offer our students and visitors a modern and professional learning environment. 

“Whether they are preparing for university, entering employment, or beginning an apprenticeship, the space has helped us create a calm and focused place for students to learn and work.”

With exams coming up over the next few weeks, it’s normal to be feeling the nerves at this stage. Whether you’re sitting GCSEs or preparing for A levels or end-of-programme assessments, having the right revision approach and attitude can help you with your exam performance. 

No matter what stage you’re at, it’s not too late to get to grips with course material. We’ve provided some tips to help you approach this season positively and get the most out of your studies.

Make your revision active

One of the biggest mistakes students make is relying on passive revision, like re-reading notes or highlighting textbooks.

Instead, try more active techniques:

• Test yourself without looking at your notes.
• Use flashcards or quick quizzes.
• Explain topics out loud as if you’re teaching someone else.

These methods help strengthen memory and make it easier to recall information in an exam.

Practice with past papers

Past papers are one of the most effective ways to prepare for exams.

They help you:

• Get familiar with question styles.
• Understand how marks are awarded.
• Build confidence under timed conditions.

Don’t worry if you don’t get everything right straight away or don’t feel ready to sit an exam. The key is trying again and learning from mistakes.

Create a routine that works for you

Consistency is more effective than last-minute cramming.

Short, focused revision sessions with regular breaks can improve concentration and prevent burnout. Try to:

• Rotate between subjects
• Spend more time on topics you find challenging
• Build revision into your daily routine

Make your environment work for you

Your surroundings can have a big impact on how well you focus.

• Keep your workspace clear and organised
• Use music or background noise if it helps you concentrate
• Choose a space where you can work without distractions

Pairing revision with something positive, like a favourite drink, snack or a comfortable setup, can also help you stay motivated.

Use the support available

At Leeds Sixth Form College, there’s a range of support to help you succeed.

Revision sessions and tutor support can:

• Help you understand difficult topics
• Improve your exam technique
• Build your confidence

Don’t be afraid to ask for help: it’s one of the best ways to improve.

Look after your wellbeing

Taking care of yourself is just as important as revising.

Make sure you:

• Get enough sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Take regular breaks

Exam season can feel challenging, but with the right approach and support from Leeds Sixth Form College, you can go into your assessments feeling prepared and confident.

Good luck to everyone who is preparing for exam season- you’ve got this.

Leeds Sixth Form College is pledging to promote safe driving and improve road safety across Leeds and West Yorkshire.

The Vision Zero Pledge which was launched alongside the Leeds and West Yorkshire Vision Zero Strategy asks members of the public and organisations to sign and make a commitment to road safety.

Leeds Sixth Form College is joining the West Yorkshire Combined Authority alongside local councils, emergency services and organisations including Leeds Teaching Hospitals in making this pledge.

On average, one person a week dies on the roads of West Yorkshire and thousands of people are injured every year.

The Vision Zero 2040 ambition is to have zero deaths or serious injuries on Leeds roads by 2040. 

You can support this regardless of how you travel whether it’s driving at safe speeds, removing distractions such as phones and devices, wearing your seatbelt, maintaining your vehicle or giving other road users enough space.

For more information visit: https://www.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/vz-pledge/

Philosophical discussions surrounding the meaning of life took place at the sixth form’s second ever philosophy conference.

Students from Leeds Sixth Form College, Pudsey Sixth Form and Bingley Grammar School came together on 17 March in collaboration with the Royal Institute of Philosophy. 

The event took place in the brand-new building and was centred around exploring the meaning of life through philosophy.

Academics from the University of Oxford and the University of Leeds attended alongside alumni from Leeds Sixth Form College. 

Kaylee, who studied A Level Philosophy at Leeds Sixth Form College, discussed her time on the course. She said: “I enjoyed the depth of discussion on the course, Luke would go beyond the syllabus which made it really interesting and was always very approachable.”

Kaylee is going on to study Philosophy and Politics at the University of Leeds. 

Callum, currently studying Politics at the University of Durham, added: “We got really good individual support from Luke, you could always go to him for help.”

Neive, who also took Philosophy A Level with Dr Luke Fox at the sixth form, said: “It was a very interactive A-Level which made you want to come to sixth form.”

Neive will begin her course in Nursing at the University of Liverpool in September.

The day kicked off with papers presented by guest speakers Professor Moore from the University of Oxford, Dr Webster from the University of Oxford and Professor Kirchin from the University of Leeds. 

A panel discussion followed, where students raised some interesting questions surrounding the innate desire for meaning in life.

Principal of Leeds Sixth Form College, Dr Phil Mark, said: “Students explored a range of perspectives on the possible ways we derive meaning in our lives, and engaged thoughtfully with some challenging and thought provoking material.

“The desire to make sense of our world and construct narratives seem to be a core part of creating meaning in our lives, and students were thoroughly immersed in these complex questions and big ideas throughout.”

You can find out more about Philosophy at Leeds Sixth Form College here: Leeds Sixth Form College

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!”