Resilience and dedication have prompted outstanding outcomes for Alton College students, as results day has brought even higher grades than before the pandemic.

A celebratory feeling is in the air at the college as 99 per cent of students have passed their A-levels, with grades significantly exceeding those achieved the last time formal exams were held in 2019.

Nearly two-thirds of students achieved high grades from A* to B, a huge increase of 11 per cent from 2019, while a very impressive one in three were awarded the top A* and A grades, which is six per cent higher than 2019.

There was also fantastic success for students studying A-level equivalent vocational and technical courses, with a 98 per cent pass rate and more than half of students achieving A* to B equivalent grades.

Nerves turned to delight as Alton College students received their results online and confirmed the next steps towards their dream futures, leading to emotional and triumphant scenes of celebration at the campus.

Principal and chief executive Mike Gaston said: “We are extremely proud of our students’ resilience and hard work which has led to this exceptional set of results. This success is testament to the dedication of these young people, many of whom had never sat formal exams before and who have experienced a great deal of uncertainty over the past two years during the pandemic.

“Throughout their time at Alton College, these students have been supported to achieve their goals by our highly experienced and professional teaching team and support staff who have worked tirelessly to minimise any disruption to learning.

“I am delighted that this cohort will be able to take pride in their achievements and continue on to bright futures with their heads held high.”

A variety of exciting future paths now await the college’s students, including Russell Group universities, higher apprenticeships, employment and more.