Celebrating academic excellence: Derby College Group’s A Level and T Level success

Two-thirds of Derby College Group’s 363 A-level students have achieved C or above, with a third of them gaining A or A*, and this year, 14 A Level subjects offered by the College have achieved a 100% pass rate and 99% of T Level students passed. The students have had the opportunity to study the widest range of A-levels ever, with over 30 subjects being offered, whilst the college has also expanded its T-level offering to align with local employment opportunities.

The College is celebrating many highlights across a broad range of subjects, including Psychology attaining a 100% pass rate, Film Studies a 100% A*-C pass rate, Chemistry achieving 74% A* – C grades and Media Studies achieving a 100% pass rate

A quarter of students completed an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), with a third of these students achieving A* or A. The EPQ at A level is an independent research project that allows students to explore a topic of their choice in depth, culminating in a dissertation, investigation, or creative artefact.

The EPQ sits in high regard with universities, as it fosters critical thinking and independent learning skills and the students gain valuable research/presentation skills. It’s also a great way of gaining extra points for access to university.

There have been 67 T Level students this year who gained an overall pass rate of 99%. This included more than two thirds of students achieving a Merit or above, this being equivalent to three Bs at A level. DCG has increased its offering for T Levels to reflect local employment needs including Engineering and Manufacturing and Management and Administration. 

Derby College Group’s Assistant Principal for Academic Education, Matt Ridgill said: "We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication to their education. Today is a celebration of perseverance and personal development, in addition to academic success.

"We have upheld the high standards set for our students, and we take great satisfaction in providing them with a broad range of both practical and emotional support, all of which contributes to their exam readiness.

“These outcomes demonstrate both their growth as people and their academic prowess. We are sure they have the abilities and tenacity to be successful in their chosen fields as they embark on the next chapter of their life. Early indications show that the vast majority of our students will now be heading off to their first choice university.

"Our team of teaching and support staff will be available to assist anyone in need of extra direction and counsel to help them decide on their next course of action. Everyone receiving their results should be aware that they still have a lot of options available to them.”

Deputy Principal Kate Martin continued: "The structure of these qualifications, which have been co-designed and co-delivered by a wide range of employers, are a testament to the success of our T Level cohort, and these businesses have been instrumental in the students' success. A high percentage of T-Level students received the highest possible grades—equivalent to three As or three Bs at A-level.”

46% of the A Level students at DCG reflect the community and are from a diverse background. 

DCG continues to support them by offering tailored programs and resources to ensure inclusivity and success for all. It also offers learning support services, including specialised and mentorship for students with disabilities or learning difficulties.

To promote diversity, Derby College fosters a welcoming environment with cultural awareness programs and mental health support, ensuring that every student feels valued and supported on their educational journey.