Students in Torfaen celebrated their BTEC, AS and A-level results last week.
Students Coleg Gwent’s campuses collected results from campuses in Blaenau Gwent, Crosskeys, Newport, Usk and Torfaen.
Data from the college showed that 67% of students achieved A*-C A-level grades, while more than 1,000 learners completed a BTEC qualification — enabling learners to take their first steps into higher education and new careers.
A-level results across Wales show that 97.4% of students achieved A* – E grades. 10.1% of candidates achieved an A*, and 29.9% achieved A*-A grades.
The A and AS level data, published by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), show that results are similar to those that were awarded to students before the pandemic in 2019.
A Torfaen Council spokesperson said: “Comparisons to any previous years’ results should be approached with caution due to the differing methods of assessments and circumstances.”
Cllr Richard Clark, executive member for education at Torfaen Council, said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the young people across Torfaen who have collected their A-level results today. Your hard work, dedication, and resilience have truly paid off, and you should all be incredibly proud of your achievements.
“Remember, this is just the beginning of a bright and promising future. As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, whether it be further education, training, or entering the workforce, I wish you the very best of luck.”
Ysgol Gymraeg Gwynllyw pupil Tia Goodwin’s decision to switch from Chemistry to History at the beginning of her final year in sixth form proved successful, as she achieved an A in the subject, alongside an A in English and a C in Biology.
Tia said: “I’m really happy and proud with my grades and I cannot wait to go on to study English Literature at Cardiff Metropolitan University in September.”
In addition to BTEC and A-level success, over 150 adult learners successfully completed their Access to Higher Education courses with Coleg Gwent and will be progressing on to a degree course at university.
This included Kamal Shah, who after studying on the Access to Higher Education Bioscience course at Coleg Gwent, will be studying Biology at the University of Bath. He said: “I didn’t continue my second year of A-levels due to a serious illness — completing the access course seemed like a good option for still being able to go to university.
“If you have the time to do the course and you want to get to university, then this course is perfect.”
Nicola Gamlin, deputy principal, said: “As the new incoming Principal of Coleg Gwent, I am proud to witness the exceptional achievements of our students once again this year. These results are a testament to their hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of our dedicated staff.
“We look forward to seeing the talent developed at Coleg Gwent progress on to their next steps — whether through further education or entering the world of work. Congratulations to all our students for their outstanding achievements.”