Keep calm and seek advice says Staffordshire’s leading college

Liz Wyman, Head of Learning Resources and Guidance at NSCG said: “Understandably, students can get nervous in the run up to results day, even though the vast majority get into university, an apprenticeship or employment without a hitch. These results are the culmination of two years hard work and there is often a lot riding on the outcome. We would urge students to stay calm and seek advice if things don’t go to plan.”

“As a caring college, we want to ensure that students have the best support available, whether they have out-performed expectations, undershot or are simply having doubts about the choices they have made. It is important that students, including those from other sixth forms or colleges, are reassured that whatever their results, there will be options available.”

On Thursday 15 August, Newcastle College and Stafford College will open its doors to students collecting results and will have knowledgeable staff on hand throughout the day to give advice and guidance. Students collecting results can also enjoy a free breakfast.

In 2018 98% of A Level students who sat exams passed, with almost half of the entries receiving high grades of A* - B grades and two thirds of all A Level subjects achieving a 100% pass rate. For several consecutive years Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group has been Staffordshire’s biggest provider of students to higher education, with nearly 1,200 students progressing to almost 60 different UK and overseas universities last year.

For those students choosing to stay closer to home, Newcastle College and Stafford College offers progression opportunities through a range of university-level programmes including Foundation degrees, Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Diplomas (HNDs). These courses are a perfect option for those wanting to study in a dedicated University Centre within a smaller institution that boasts first class facilities, fantastic student support and excellent results. It is not too late to apply for courses starting in September; there are a range of options available, including HNC/Ds in Art & Design, Business, Computing, Early Years, Graphic Design, Health and Social Care, Music, Sport, Performing Arts, Public Services.

Principal and Chief Executive of NSCG, Karen Dobson said: “This is an exciting time of year as students across the country receive their all-important exam results. For many, a university place will be calling, but for an increasing number of young people apprenticeships are becoming an attractive choice. An apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to gain practical skills and knowledge in your chosen field, with the ability to study to degree-level, whilst earning a wage.”

Newcastle College works with over 850 regional employers and promotes a broad apprenticeship offering with a strong achievement rates, more than 11% ahead of the national average. Currently there are around 90 local apprenticeship vacancies available through ‘The Apprenticeship Hub’, a dedicated facility housed within the main reception area at the Newcastle College’s Knutton Lane campus and at Stafford College’s Victoria Square campus.

To find out more about apprenticeships and HE courses at Newcastle College and Stafford College, visit nscg.ac.uk. To enquire about apprenticeship vacancies contact The Apprenticeship Hub on 01782 254287 (Newcastle College) or 01785 275660.