A Level results: 'Subdued mood' at Luton Sixth Form College despite 'excellent' academic achievements

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the results were based on teacher assessments rather than exams.

However, around 40% of assessments are believed to have been downgraded as a result of the algorithm used by the exam regulator.

Overall, A Level results at Luton Sixth Form College were reported to be largely in line with those of the previous year, with a "strong improvement" in higher grades but a "small decline" in pass rates.

Among the highest-achieving students were Meriam Besbas, who achieved a triple Distinction* in her Medical Science Extended Diploma as well achieving an A grade in her Italian at A level. Also, Aaron Sunderland, achieved four A*s in Computer Science, Physics, Further Mathematics and Mathematics for Further Maths.

Jesse Hulsebos also scooped four A*s in Biology, Psychology, Chemistry and Mathematics while Emma Kelly and, Maryam Imran and Lucy Treleaven also gained three A* and one A.

A Level achievement increased by 4.5%, from 84.8% last year to 89.3%. High grades also experienced a modest increase of 0.5%, from 38.2% to 38.7%. The BTEC Level 3 Diploma pass rate was as equally impressive at 85.7% – an increase of 2.1% compared to last year.

The College’s Extended Diploma in Science, a 3 A-Level equivalent, also improved with achievement rates at 94.7% and pass rates at 98.6% and offered students a viable route into a wide range of STEM related courses at university.

Principal Altaf Hussain said: “This has been an incredibly difficult year for all our students and we are so proud of our Year 13 and the hard work that has led them to this point.

“We are relieved that for most of our students the qualifications awarded today are broadly in line with our assessments and that will enable them to move forward with their studies to the destinations that they have planned; putting this odd and unsettling period of their education behind them.

“It has been made possible because we continue to have some of the best staff in the sector who go the extra mile every day because they care and have bucket loads of integrity. Their dedication has enabled so many of our students to progress onto their chosen pathways.

“Together with our chair of governors, Professor Mary Malcolm, I would like to thank our many supporters and the local community for everything they have done to shape the futures of our students.

“These results demonstrate that the college is continuously providing high quality education to students in Luton and the wider area and more importantly that students feel challenged and supported to achieve their very best.”