Students from Arnewood School, Brockenhurst College, Ringwood School, Highcliffe School, Burgate School and Twynham Sixth Form collect their A-level results
EMOTIONS were running high as students across the New Forest and Christchurch received their A-level results.
This was the second year in which exams were undertaken at pre-pandemic levels, and schools and colleges celebrated making continued progress in overall achievement levels.
One local youngster even gained the UK’s highest grade in an A-level subject.
At The Arnewood in New Milton, overall results had improved for the second year running.
Head teacher Jamie Anderson said: “We could not be prouder of the Arnewood School class of 2024, who have seen their hard work, dedication and resilience rewarded with an excellent set of A-level results.
“With 25% of grades at A*/A and 45% at B or higher we are extremely proud of our students’ achievements.
“We are particularly pleased that 85% of the cohort secured places at their first choice of university.
“The new Arnewood alumni will embark on courses far and wide, in this country and abroad, including medicine, natural sciences, physics, computing, acting, special effects, and law.”
The school also enjoyed a successful outcome in BTEC qualifications, including creative digital media production and sports diploma courses.
Armewood’s high achievers included Joey Dewhirst (2A*s and an A), Elizabeth Grylls (A* and 3 As), Abbie Light and Fred Gouldstone (both with A*, two As and a B); and Jake Inglis and Maisie Philp (both awarded three As).
Over 1,000 Brockenhurst College A-level and vocational students included Amber Dunnigan, from Bournemouth, who was the highest performer nationally for A-level psychology – examined by Oxford, Cambridge and Royal Society of Arts (OCR).
The former Bishop of Winchester Academy pupil said: “I’m so happy – I couldn’t have expected anything better.
“It’s so good. I was well prepared for my exams, but I wouldn’t have expected to get the top mark in the country for psychology – it’s crazy.
“My teachers were very good at helping me understand the structure of the course.
“This meant I always knew what my next steps should be, which made it easier to revise and get good grades.”
Amber is off to study law at the University of Southampton.
The college’s A-level students collectively achieved 100% pass rates in many subjects - animation, drama, English Language & Literature, English Literature, French, further maths, history, media, music, philosophy, medical science and extended project qualification.
Other A-level high achievers include Daisy Colebeck (biology A*, maths A*, and chemistry A); George Meadows, (maths A*, further maths A*, physics A*, and chemistry A).
Hannah Thorp, from Milford, achieved D*D*D* in level 3 sport and exercise science.
The former Priestlands School pupil said: “I’m really pleased with my results today and I feel very proud.
“I’ve worked very hard over the last two years, and I’ve enjoyed my time at Brock.
“My teachers were very helpful and put on extra sessions before our exams.
“They told me what to do and I did it. And it paid off.”
Brockenhurst also enjoyed a 100% pass rate in many level 3 vocational subjects - IT, business, health & social care, children’s play, learning & development, engineering, music, media, art & design, performing arts, travel & tourism and uniformed protective services.
College principal Helen Odhams said: “Congratulations to our students and staff on the impressive results achieved this year.
“Students have demonstrated considerable commitment and enthusiasm, while staff have provided invaluable support to help them succeed, meaning many have secured places at leading universities and employment.
“We wish all our leavers the very best as they embark on their next exciting steps – we are incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”
Ringwood School’s students were keen to share their successes with their teachers as they thanked staff for guiding them through their courses.
The school welcomed a 58% rate of top grades (A*/A/B) – 3% higher than in 2019, with three quarters of students securing at least one of these.
The percentage of A*-C grades was 80% – as it was in pre-pandemic years – and the average grade matched its 2019 average of B.
A school spokesperson said: “We are pleased that our pass rate this year is 99.4%.
“Early calculations suggest that the school has retained a very strong rating from ALPs (a national progress measure for A-level), which puts Ringwood School amongst the strongest post-16 providers nationally.
“There has been exceptional success in many subjects this year.”
Languages were particularly strong, with the centre’s 9% rate A* rate shattered by a 33% achievement of this grade in French (83% A* & A). Spanish was close behind with 25% of grades at A* (75% A* & A).
Maths – Ringwood’s most popular A-level – secured 21% of grades at A*, and English Language had 20%.
Personal successes included 15 students securing at least three A*/A grades, including one with 4 A*s.
Vocational qualifications had an average grade of Distinction (equivalent to an A-level grade A).
All students on the BTEC musical theatre extended certificate attained a Distinction or a Distinction*; and 81% of the OCR sport level 3 course attained a Distinction or Distinction*.
Many of Ringwood’s students will be heading off to university this autumn to read a wide variety of subjects, ranging from medicine, physiotherapy, and occupational health to acting for film, communication and media.
Destinations cover York in the north to Plymouth in the south, with Exeter University being the most popular choice, taking on seven students.
Some youngsters have chosen to take up degree apprenticeship opportunities in accountancy and a highly-sought-after placement with the RAF, while others are entering the world of work.
Results at The Burgate Sixth Form were in line with 2023, with students performing highly in the second season of exams since the pandemic.
Over 80% gained their first-choice university place and others will be starting degree apprenticeships.
There are also students starting a range of training courses in the workplace and apprenticeships.
Head teacher David Pover said: “I am delighted that our students have achieved results that enable them to fulfil their future aspirations.
“Moreover, that they really enjoyed their time at The Burgate Sixth Form, developing as confident and engaging young people.
“Congratulations to them and thanks to all those who have supported their educational journey.
“I wish them all the very best as they take their next bold steps in life.”
Among the achievers were Bowe Wills (A*A A B), Thomas Florence (A* A* A* A), Torey Boss (A A B B), Matthew Gillett (A* A* A A), Benjamin Meekings (A* A A A), Lewis Fishlock (A A Distinction*), Reece Garnett (A* A B); and Harry Palmer (A A A).
Highcliffe School head teacher Patrick Earnshaw welcomed the achievement of his pupils in this year’s exams.
“I am delighted with this year’s A-level and BTEC results which saw the proportion of Highcliffe Sixth Form students achieving the top A/A*/Distinction grades increase significantly from 2023,” he said.
High achievers here included Joseph Brakoniecki (A* A* A* A*), Tristan Hodgson (A* A* A* A*); and Isabella Spencer McDaniel (A* A* A* A*).
They were joined by Alice Dyer Smith (A A A and A* EPQ), Gracie Emecz (A* A* A and A EPQ), Lara Jenkinson (A* A* A* A and A* EPQ), Olivia Morris (A* A* A), Elizabeth Proctor (A* A* A* A), Marly Radomska (A* A A), Freya Waddington (A* A* A* A*); and Ruby Williams (A* A A).
Twynham six formers “delivered strong performance” across their subjects, with 83% of students securing places at their first-choice university. Forty-three will be attending Russell Group universities, with 3 accepted into veterinary medicine courses and two gaining places at the University of Oxford.
Toby Brockway will be studying engineering at the University of Exeter, Maria Issott will attend the University of Edinburgh for veterinary medicine, and Jemma Naraine will study media and communications at Cardiff University.
Also commended by the school were: Lucy Wheeler accepted into Oxford; Gemma Sinden studying Law at Exeter; Veronique Shotter, musical theatre at Staffordshire; Laura Dupac, economics at Bristol; Samuel Coode, film production at Arts University Bournemouth; Rosie Clarkson, law at Cardiff; and Jack Howard, music at Royal Holloway, University of London.
Kate Ball, associate head teacher, said their accomplishments were a testament to the dedication of both the students and staff. “We look forward to seeing our students thrive in their future endeavours and always be connected to us as members of our alumni.
“It is always great to have the opportunity to celebrate with students on results day and we wish them all the best with their next step and in the future.”
She added: “We would like to thank the students and teachers for their hard work, and the parents & carers for their support, over the last seven years. Well done to the class of 2024 – you have made us very proud!”
For those Hampshire students who have achieved the grades they needed, or have had a change of heart about what they would like to do, the county council is offering help.
Its Hampshire Futures dedicated telephone and email support service – staffed by careers advisers – is available today and tomorrow to answer queries and offer advice.
Cllr Steve Forster, cabinet member for education, said: “Our dedicated helpline is just one way for students and their parents to talk through the options, with school and college careers advisers also standing by to support those who need to rethink their next steps.”
The Hampshire Futures exam results service is available from 9am to 3pm today and tomorrow and can be contacted on 03707 796 122 or via careers.service@hants.gov.uk
Advice and information on options, including applying for higher apprenticeships, moving on to university, applying for employment, and a wide range of other careers information, can be found on the Hampshire Futures website at tinyurl.com/2zzh6u56
It includes links to useful resources, as well as short videos on various careers advice topics, including information for young people with special educational needs who are transitioning into the workforce.
Students feeling uncertain or anxious about the future as they prepare to move on to university, employment, or other training can also find details of a range of support services on website.
Mental Wellbeing Hampshire (tinyurl.com/dhk5myry) provides a directory of services for families and the wider school community.
SHOUT (giveusashout.org) offers 24/7 mental health support – text HANTS to 85258 or call Childline on 0800 1111.
BCP Council celebrated more than 3,000 students across the region receiving their A-level, applied general, technical and T-level results.
Cllr Richard Burton, portfolio holder for children, young people, education and skills, said: “Congratulations to everyone who has sat exams and finished courses this summer.
“It’s a great achievement and I’d like to wish everyone the best for the future, whether they’re continuing in education, entering the workplace, or taking some time out to think.
“I would also like to express our thanks to all the teachers, lecturers and support staff who work so hard supporting young people through their educational journey."
