A WARRINGTON College’s Class of 2012 were honoured at an awards ceremony attended by parents, tutors and local dignitaries.
Arriving on a red carpet at Priestley College – complete with paparazzi – the students were treated to a night that saw them all receive their exam certificates with 72 special awards handed out for high achievements.
College Principal Mike Southworth told the audience: “Outstanding achievement by our young people really is our community’s best hope for future prosperity.
“Here at Priestley College we aim to make success and achievement a habit – one that will continue throughout adult life.”
All students, parents and tutors were also congratulated by the Chief Constable of Cheshire Police David Whatton who was guest of honour.
Among the academic achievements that were being celebrated were:
* An overall A Level pass rate of at least 99% for the eighth year running
* 100% pass rate in 39 A Level subjects from 978 candidate entries
* 750 grades awarded at A* to B at A Level
* Some 72% of grades at A*to C at A Level
* All BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma courses scored 100% pass rate from some 281 entries
* Over 500 Distinction grades awarded on BTEC programmes
Speaking to hundreds of parents who had gathered at Priestley College for the ceremony, Chair of Governors Reg Haslam said: “This is our best attendance ever and the best in terms of academic achievement, regardless of those who say exams are becoming easier each year.
“Not true – the results are due to the hard work of your children and all the staff here at Priestley.”
During the event – which was sponsored by 14 businesses and organisations – students were recognized for their high achievements in subjects across all curriculum areas
More than 550 of the year group progressed to universities including Oxbridge, the Russell Group and top specialist colleges.
Others have secured jobs with firms such as Lloyds TSB, United Utilities and Vodafone while apprenticeships have been achieved with Fujitsu, the Environment Agency, O2 and Monarch Airlines.
At the awards evening Mr Southworth also praised the College Council and students from across College who worked on a number of charitable events ranging from Children in Need to Islamic Relief.
The Council also promoted active citizenship and won the Speaker’s School Council award ahead of 300 other entries for their work promoting political literacy.
Mr Southworth said: “The doors of colleges like Priestley should always open towards a place at life’s top table, not a seat at the back of the class.”
He added: “I think your achievements and confidence should make real the prospect of a more fulfilled life; a better job; an opportunity to make a difference in whatever career path you follow.”
