Students thrive during lockdown

Powys students at NPTC Group of Colleges have proved they’ve used lockdown to knuckle down with fantastic results.

After a year that no one could have predicted in the face of a global pandemic, the College maintained its overall pass rate of 99 per cent and achieved the highest number of A* results in the College’s history. In addition, 71 students achieved triple distinction grades in the Extended National Diploma qualifications, with 32 students achieving the highest possible grade profile of triple distinction stars (D*D*D*) which is the equivalent to three A* at A level.

Also a staggering 427 learners successfully achieved the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate with an outstanding pass rate of 99.3%. Both A Level and BTEC students adapted to on-line learning, focusing on their studies to arrive at what are once again, truly amazing results.  Many of the class of 2020 have secured places at top universities or got the qualifications to land their dream jobs.

Mark Dacey, Chief Executive Officer and Principal of NPTC Group of Colleges said: “I am incredibly proud of the results we have achieved especially in what has been a challenging time in more ways than one. Staff have adapted their teaching practices to engage students in a whole new way. These results are a testament to the dedication of staff and students in unprecedented circumstances.’’

Gaynor Richards MBE, Chair of the Board of Governors was delighted to hear results and said:  I want to congratulate all of our students who received results today. We are acutely aware of how different the end of the last academic year turned out to be. However, you are now joining an illustrious group of alumni who have been successful in their studies with us at NPTC Group of Colleges.  I am so incredibly proud of everyone, students and staff who have this year exemplified the ethos of this College by living and breathing our strapline “Mwy nag addysyg yn unig” – “More than just an education.”

The Education Minister, Kirsty Williams, said: “I want to send my very best wishes to all the students in NPTC Group of Colleges for all their hard work leading up to results day. I hope you got the results you wanted and can look forward to the next stage of your education or your career!”

Some of the results from students in Powys;-

Layla Jones achieved a fantastic Distinction in the Extended Diploma in Performing Arts.

During her time on the course Layla was a dedicated and focused student who went from strength to strength. She had a passion for musical theatre and was a strong triple threat performer.

Layla was about to undertake the lead role in our full-scale musical theatre production before we went into lockdown, and although the production being cancelled was extremely disappointing, Layla continued to work hard and showed the same level of commitment towards the online learning as she did in college.

Layla’s work was always of a high standard, and she put as much care into her written work as she did her practical.

Out of College Layla also got involved in numerous local groups, she worked with the children’s theatre group at The Hafren, Rising Stars, and choreographed for them.

She helps out with other groups as a vocal coach and also performs locally. Layla is hoping to gain a place in drama school in order to pursue a career in musical theatre.

Courtney Ashworth studied Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma Sport and achieved Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*) which is the equivalent of 3 A*s at A level. Courtney is delighted with her results and is going to study Sports Injuries Rehabilitation at Glyndwr University.

Owen Brunt also studied Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma Sport and accomplished a Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*). Owen said ‘I worked really hard for the grades I came out with and am pleased of my placed to Cardiff Met to do Sports Performance Analysis’.

Elis Tudor studied Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma Sport and achieved a Triple Distinction Star (D*D*D*) and a B in the Welsh Baccalaureate. Elis has received a scholarship as a result of her grades and is going to Aberystywth University to do Primary Education leading to QTS.

Prys Eckley studied Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science at Brecon College and achieved Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*). Prys is going on to Cardiff Metropolitan University to study Sport Education and Health.

Conor Drain also studied Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science at Brecon College and was pleased to attain Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*).

Ethan Smith completed the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business with WBQ. Ethan achieved Double Distinction, Merit and an A grade in the Welsh Baccalaureate. Ethan has prospered in his home studying and has decided to complete a BA Honours in Business Management (Accounting) at Open University, whilst completing AAT Level 2&3. Throughout the pandemic Ethan has been working towards getting a certificate from the CFA (Charted Financial Authority) through an online course which he says has further developed his understanding of the financial sector, plus continuing to work part-time at an accountancy firm to gain experience.

Teleri Ottaway studied Level 3 BTEC Diploma Health and Social Care and achieved a Triple Distinction Star D*D*D* and a B in Welsh Baccalaureate.

Teleri said ‘I’m very proud of my results, and would like to thank the staff at Newtown College for all their help and guidance. The course has taught me so much and I feel like it has opened doors for me and allowed me to realise where I want to go in the future. I would really recommend this course to anyone thinking of taking it as it creates so many opportunities and I personally have learnt so much from it. My next chapter is to begin a degree in Primary School Teaching at the University of Chester.

Ellie Bray also studied Level 3 BTEC Diploma Health and Social Care and attained a Triple Distinction Star (D*D*D*) and a B in Welsh Baccalaureate

Ellie said ‘I’m super pleased with my grades! I’m now going to Staffordshire university, but the Shrewsbury campus, to study Child Nursing! Couldn’t have done it without the amazing tutors!! 

Sion Jones received Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*) in the BTEC Level 3 Public Services. He is hoping to start a Police Apprenticeship Degree in January or considering joining Cardiff University to study Criminology next September.

Steph Andrews received a Triple Distinction Star grade (D*D*D*) in BTEC Level 3 Public Services. He is going to Cardiff University studying a degree in Law and Criminology. 

Will Bengall studied BTEC Level 3 Public Services. He achieved a Distinction, Distinction Merit grade and will progress to Glyndwr University to take Professional Policing linked to North Wales Police. 

Billy Morgan also studied BTEC Level 3 Public Services and attained a Triple Pass grade. Billy joined the British Army in June 2020.