There were cheers, tears and plenty of hugs at Strode College as students collected their A level, T Level and vocational results – with many securing places at top universities, landing apprenticeships, or stepping straight into skilled jobs.

The college has reported another strong year across all areas, with A level pass rates remaining high and the vast majority of students gaining the grades needed for their next step. Of the 31 A level subjects offered this year, 29 recorded pass rates above 95%, while over 60% of students achieved A* to B grades in subjects including Fine Art, French, Further Maths, and Philosophy, Ethics and Religion. English Literature, Photography and Film Studies were also among the subjects with more than half of students receiving top grades.

A number of students are now heading to universities including Oxford, Aberdeen, Royal Holloway, Falmouth, Bath Spa and Brighton, to study courses ranging from Medicine and Music to Occupational Therapy and History and Politics.

Among them is Alf Beckinsale, who achieved AAA* in History, Politics and Philosophy and will now go on to study History and Politics at Oxford University. "I prepared myself mentally for results day, but finding out I'd achieved 3 A*s was still a massive weight off my shoulders," he said. "I've loved my time at Strode College."

Georgina Hawkins also achieved three A* grades in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. She will study Medicine at Aberdeen University and continue to compete as a national-level swimmer. "My teachers have been amazing and their support has helped me secure my place. Aberdeen has two Olympic-sized pools, and I'm aiming to compete in the Commonwealth Games," she said.

T Level students at the college also delivered a strong performance, with 74% achieving high grades across subjects including Education, Health, Business and Digital. These courses, which combine classroom learning with extended industry placements, continue to grow in popularity.

Daisy Appleby-Hearn, who completed a Health T Level with a Merit, is now preparing to join the Navy as a medic. "I've had a great time at Strode and made some amazing friends. Now I'm looking forward to joining the Navy – it's a big change and I'm feeling both nervous and excited about what's ahead."

Students following vocational, technical and professional pathways also received good news, with most courses achieving a 100% pass rate. Many gained high grades in practical qualifications that combine hands-on training with academic learning, helping them build skills and confidence for work in sectors such as healthcare, education, digital and creative industries.

Petrina Rochester, Assistant Principal for Technical and Professional Education, said: "Our technical and professional students aren't just gaining qualifications – they're building the skills, confidence, and work experience that directly benefit our local community. Whether they're training in health, early years, digital or other sectors, they're developing the expertise employers need right here in the region."

Principal Sam Reilly praised students and staff for their efforts. "I'm delighted with the fantastic results achieved by our Strode College students this year. Their determination, resilience and enthusiasm for learning have been inspiring to see. These outcomes are a testament to their hard work and the dedication of our staff, and I look forward to watching them go on to achieve great things in the future."

With students heading off to a wide range of destinations – from Russell Group universities to armed forces training, from creative arts schools to local employers – Strode's Class of 2025 is set to make its mark both near and far.