Newark Academy students celebrate A-level results day 2024
Students at Newark Academy are celebrating after picking up some exceptional A-level results.
Today marks the end of the sixth formers’ school journeys and their first steps into adulthood, whether continuing their education at university, going on to do an apprenticeship or entering the world of work.
School head Inma Peña, said: “I’m really proud of all our students and staff because it’s been a team effort to get such positive outcomes.
“What was most important was making sure that all our students got the results they needed to enable them to go onto their chosen pathways.
“It’s not just university either. We’ve had more apply for apprenticeships this year than ever before.
“I think that is the real success of this Sixth Form. It is vocational as well as academic, and we offer a diverse range of courses that cater for all of our students.”
One of the high achievers was Amelia Beresford, who is going on to study Psychology at the prestigious Durham University in September.
She secured an A* in Sociology, a B in Psychology, and a C in English literature after dedicating herself fully to her school work.
Amelia said: “I’m elated because I was not expecting an A* at all.
“It’s been a challenge but I knew what I needed to do and it’s paid off.
“I’ve always been interested in the brain and how people behave, so I’m really excited to go to university and learn more.”
Grace Phillips will be heading to Liverpool John Moores University to study Journalism after achieving an A* in media, a B in English, and a C in chemistry.
She said: “Media was my favourite subject, I’ve always been fascinated with it, so I’m very happy with my results.
“I want to thank my teachers for all their support and confidence in me — I would not have been able to do it without them.
“I’m looking to university, it’s far away but I’m very excited to try new things, in new places, and meet new people.”
Her mum, Collette, was there to support her and said: “I’m so thrilled for Grace because I don’t think she was expecting such good results.
“She worked really hard and had lots of fun and I’m so proud.”
Head student Tommy Storr has been accepted into drama school in Letchworth after securing an A* in digital media, an A in maths, and a B in business.
He said: “I’m really happy because I worked really hard.
“I’ve always been a bit indecisive and actually started off doing five A-levels, but I think it’s given me a broader knowledge that will be good for the future.
“I’ve done musical theatre from a young age, starting out at Newark Palace Theatre’s youth theatre, and I directed, choreographed and sponsored our school show all by myself.
“So this is something I’ve always wanted to do and in the future I think I’d like to teach drama and pass on my knowledge.”
Friends Emily Adshead and Bella Davies will both be heading to Sheffield Hallam University in September after picking up their results together.
Emily achieved an A in English literature, an A in Sociology, and a B in History and will be going on to study primary education.
She said: “It was a big relief to know that we got what we needed.
“I think we’re both a bit nervous about moving away, but also really happy and excited to start something new.”
Bella received two Distinction*s in double sport, as well as a Distinction in applied science, and hopes to put her knowledge to the test at university as she studies to become a physiotherapist.
Adam Howcroft picked up a Distinction and a Merit in double sports, as well as a C in psychology, and will be going on to study sports science and coaching at Nottingham Trent University.
“The teachers here helped so much, they’re really excellent at what they do,” he said.
“They’re always there to answer your questions and provide support and that has been the case all the way through school from year 7.”
Szymon Swiatek is planning to get a job as a gym instructor at Newark Sports and Fitness Centre, and in the future hopes to take a gap year before eventually going off the university.
He secured a Distrinction in business, a Distinction in sport, and a Merit in media.
It wasn’t only a success for those heading to university, as many secured places on vocational courses and apprenticeships.
Luke Dixon has aspirations of becoming a sports coach after surpassing his results day expectations.
He received a Distinction* in sports leadership, a Distinction in sports coaching and a C in Geography.
“I’m buzzing,” he said. “I thought I’d done badly, so when I opened my results I didn’t believe it. I’m so shocked”
He will now start an apprenticeship with Actve4Today at Blidworth Leisure Centre, saying: “I want to help people with disabilities like me.”
His teaching assistant Sharon Preston, who has supported him throughout his whole secondary school journey, was there to celebrate his success.
She said: “I always say I’m like his school mum — I’m so proud of him because he never let his disability get in the way.”
