Paignton schools and colleges report strong A-level results

THREE PAIGNTON schools and colleges have reported strong A-level results. South Devon College in Paignton says its results, announced yesterday, are "superb", there's "delight" at Torquay Girls' Grammar School, while Paignton Community and Sports College has described its results as "excellent"...

South Devon College in Paignton says its A-level results achieved an outstanding overall pass rate of 99.5%, with the majority of students achieving grades A*-C.

Principal Stephen Criddle said, "These are superb results for South Devon College with many outstanding individual achievements. I am particularly pleased with our learner's achievements and increased overall pass rate of 99.5% - we are really delighted! Congratulations to everyone, both students and staff, who have worked so hard to achieve such excellent results."

High-achievers included 17-year-old Oliver Hicks from Paignton, who gained an A* in Maths, A in Physics and A in Computing. He's off to Oxford University for a masters in Mechanical Engineering: "To get into Oxford is amazing and I'm really proud," he said. "Without the college's help, I wouldn't be there. I'm buzzing!"

Meanwhile 18-year-old Callum Howorth from Paignton achieved an A in English Literature and a B in both Law and History. He is progressing on to Newcastle University to study a law degree: "I was estatic when I opened my results! It's such a relief that all the hard work has paid off and I'm one step closer to my goal of becoming the best lawyer the world has ever seen!"

And 17-year-old Sarah Brunt from Paignton achieved a B in Maths and Psychology and a D in History at A Level. She is going onto Plymouth University to study Accountancy: "I'm very happy that all of my hard work and studying has paid off! My tutors at college were very helpful."

Best-ever results

Torquay Girls' Grammar School is reporting its best-ever A-level results, saying it is "delighted". Overall, 80% of grades were awarded at A*-B, with 27% of students achieving three of more A grades. Five students achieved three or more A*s at A Level. Many of the girls got into the universities of their choice, including those competing for Oxbridge, medics and veterinary places.

"Our Sixth Form continues to enable girls to achieve the highest grades and to get into the top universities on their preferred courses," said Headteacher Dr Nick Smith. "I am proud of the girls and proud of my staff."

Mr James Gregory, Director of the Sixth Form, paid tribute to his students, saying; "The girls in this particular year group managed to not only enjoy school and give to the local community, but were able to work really hard to achieve their ambitious goals – the staff here are really pleased for them."

"Excellent" results

Students at Paignton Community and Sports College were celebrating their post-16 examination results yesterday, many having achieved the grades they required to take up university places.

The overall pass rate for students finishing their post-16 studies was 97%, while a 100% pass rate was achieved in Biology, English Literature, Film Studies, History, Maths, Physics and Psychology. Students also performed well in the BTEC courses, gaining distinctions in Public Services, Performing Arts, Acting, Dance and the sports courses.

College Principal Jane English said: "Students and staff are to be congratulated on all their hard work. They have achieved some excellent results."

Congratulations to all of Paignton's students on their A-level results.