St Vincent College in Gosport celebrates students' exam success and welcomes new intake

Never before had the doors of Gosport’s Further Education college been thrown open with more delight.

Staff not only felt huge relief when, after thorough assessment of new safety measures, it was concluded the site could be reopened for classroom teaching four weeks ago, but also excitement and exhilaration when finally sharing congratulations for the college’s recent results in person.

Despite the disruption and challenges presented by the Coronavirus pandemic, Level 3 BTEC and A-Level students at St Vincent College achieved a 98% pass rate across all subjects, with an impressive 88% being awarded high grades.

The number of university applicants successfully gaining places at their first choice university was 10% over the national average and the college has maintained its position in the top 10% of providers in the UK for vocational courses.

‘When I think of the dedication and focus of our management team, subject tutors, support staff and, perhaps most importantly, students who were all determined to maintain our learning programmes from home, I am overwhelmed with pride,’ says Principal Andy Grant.

‘It is testimony to what our community was able to achieve, even when physically separated.’

During lockdown and the subsequent restrictions, the college was even shortlisted at this year’s Sixth Form College Association Awards for the category of ‘Health and Wellbeing’.

Established to celebrate and showcase outstanding practice in the UK’s 16-19 education sector, the college was recognised for its staff training, occupational health and mentoring.

But despite the fantastic results, staff are far from complacent.

‘There are serious challenges ahead with authorities advising that we do not host our planned Open Evenings in person at the college on Tuesday October 13 and Wednesday November 18,’ says Andy.

‘These events have always proved hugely popular and crucial for students in their final year at school to find out about all we can offer them.’

Instead, the college is launching a number of online initiatives in its campaign to get students to ‘Look Again’ at all it offers in both vocational and academic qualifications.

Andy explains: ‘We are encouraging students and their families to explore our website, social media and message us to arrange personal tours, ask questions or arrange a call by phone or through online platforms.

‘There has never been a more important time for us to shout about all St Vincent College has developed and achieved in our further education offering.’

To find out more about St Vincent College, go to www.stvincent.ac.uk