Accrington and Rossendale College (ARC) are once again celebrating another successful year of Level 3 results. With an impressive 100% pass rate, the only Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ FE College in Lancashire has proven once again why it is a beacon of technical excellence within East Lancashire.
Amid concerns over this year’s results regressing to pre-pandemic norms, students from the Hyndburn-based College outperformed expectations, achieving exceptional grades of Distinction and Distinction* across a wide range of technical disciplines.
Reinforcing the College’s dedication to preparing young people for success within their chosen sector, this year’s accomplishments further highlight the significant impact that Accrington and Rossendale College has on supporting the talent pipeline for local and regional industry. As such, a substantial portion of these students are on their way to pursuing university courses, high-level degree apprenticeships, and careers driven by industry demands.
Amongst the high achievers at Accrington and Rossendale College this year were:
– Niamh Downey, from Haslingden High, achieved D*, D*, D in Sport and Exercise Science and is now heading to Manchester Metropolitan University to study Physiotherapy.
– Luigi Incandela, achieved D*, D*, D* in Digital and IT and is progressing onto the University of Bolton to study Software Engineering.
– Damien Robinson, from the Hyndburn Academy, achieved D*, D, D in Creative and Digital Media and aspires to pursue a career in photography.
– Joshua Baynes, from The Hollins County High School, achieved D*, D, D in Sport and Exercise Science and is off to Edge Hill University to study Physical Education and Teaching.
– Isabella Ditta, achieved 2 A*s in her Education and Childcare course and is off to Edge Hill University to study Primary Education.
– Lincoln Kalia, achieved a D, D, D in Sport and Exercise Science acquiring him a place at the University of Bolton studying Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience.
There was much speculation surrounding this year’s Level 3 results; fuelled by a shift back to pre-pandemic marking standards, concerns emerged about the reduced margin for student error. Despite this, the unwavering commitment and dedication of ARC students, paired with the expertise and supportive guidance of the teaching staff, appeared to shield them from the challenges that have affected many colleges nationwide.
Principal and CEO Lisa O’Loughlin was interviewed by the BBC yesterday morning and said: “I am so excited for our learners and the opportunities that lay ahead of them following their outstanding results. We know that, because of Covid, it has been a difficult few years for these students, but their hard work and determination is clear to see when we have so many of our learners progressing onto high value channels such as degree apprenticeships, university courses and competitive job roles”
When asked about her two years at ARC, Nimah Downey said “I came to ARC because of their great Sports course, something I have always had a passion for. The course had a great blend of theoretical and practical activities, and the other students were a really friendly, diverse bunch.
I am now off to Manchester Metropolitan to study Physiotherapy. After that, I’d love to run my own private physiotherapy practice one day!”
Luigi Incandela, who achieved the highest honours of triple Distinction* in his Digital and IT course, is off to the University of Bolton to study Software Engineering. When commenting on his time at ARC he said “What I enjoyed most during my time here were the teachers—approachable, supportive, and committed to ensuring your success. The subject itself is interesting and exciting too.”
If you find yourself inspired by these achievements and seek to elevate your career aspirations through an Accrington and Rossendale College education, it’s not too late. Their dedicated Admissions Team stands ready to guide you toward the perfect course. Reach out today at 01282 440272 or via email at admissions@nelsongroup.ac.uk.
