STUDENTS at New College were in celebratory mood this morning as they tore open the envelopes containing their A-level results.

For some, the university course of their dreams was firmly in the bag. Others had the difficult choice of choosing between a variety of different offers – some decided to take a year out.

Eighteen-year-old Beth Robinson struggled to contain her joy as she discovered she had achieved two As, an A* and a B, enabling her to go on to study primary education at Winchester University.

A delighted Beth said: “I have exceeded all my expectations, I am so happy.

“I wasn’t freaked out about it at all, until I got up this morning. I had to convince myself not to check the website as I wanted to get them in person.

“It’s the first time I’ve ever come down to look at my results on my own – I usually need other people to read them out to me. I expected to get three Bs, so I’m incredibly happy.”

The College attained an overall pass rate of 96 per cent with 1,368 successful exam entries.

There were 12 subjects – including physics, textiles, geography and Polish – in which more than 50 per cent of grades achieved were an A*, A or B.

And 100 per cent pass rate was attained in 32 subjects, some of which included creative writing, philosophy, music and economics.

Ryan Grey, 17, was very pleased with achieving two As and a B in geography, sociology and history, respectively.

“I did a lot better than I expected,” he said.

“I was a bit worried this morning, and nervous when I came into college. But I’m elated, I had no idea I would do so well.”

Ryan loved learning all about Weimar Germany in his history lessons and he is looking forward to continuing his studies at New College.

New College principal, Graham Taylor, said: “We are delighted that so many of our students have achieved such fantastic A-level and BTEC vocational results, especially with recent reforms to both qualification types. These results really are a testament to the talent and hard work of our learners as well as the dedication, commitment and support given from our teaching and support staff.”

“Some students will choose to take advantage of higher education or apprenticeship opportunities available here at New College whilst others will go onto jobs or universities across the country. Whichever university or career path our learners choose to go down, their experience at New College will stay with them – and we wish them all the best of luck for their futures.”