A Levels Success Stories

Meet some of our former students.

BETH QUINN

Studied: English, maths and politics 

Now: Law at Eversheds’ Unlocked Academy and Newcastle University

Beth from Blakelaw was among just 16 youngsters from across the country to be selected to join a prestigious development programme run by law firm Eversheds.

Whilst studying English, maths and politics A Levels at Gateshead College Sixth Form, Beth was selected to join the academy after completing work experience with the law firm.

Beth is part of the academy whilst studying law at Newcastle University and receives mentoring support, work experience, training and the opportunity to attend networking events.

Beth said: “I really want to be a business lawyer, so this is a great chance for me to realise that ambition.”

“Gaining work experience during my A Levels has been extremely beneficial. I have been able to see the work of a top law firm at first hand, while letting them see my capabilities as a potential future employee.”

“Achieving a place on the development programme undoubtedly gets me a step-ahead of other students hoping to gain work in the legal profession, which is highly competitive.”

Shirley Wright, Partner at Eversheds added: “Beth is a very impressive student, brimming with confidence and enthusiasm. 

“She is determined to succeed in her goal of qualifying as a lawyer and I’m confident that she has the qualities needed to do so. She is very bright and hardworking and I’m very much looking forward to working with her more closely and seeing her blossom into a lawyer in due course.”

I didn't enjoy sixth form study at school. I didn't feel supported. Here, there is a sense of equality where teachers support and encourage you.
Anika Ali

CALLUM HUTCHINSON

Studied: Biology, physics and chemistry 

Now: Veterinary Medicine at Royal Veterinary College, London.

 

Science-ace Callum secured a place to study at the prestigious Royal Veterinary College in London. 

With a love of animals, Callum decided being a vet was for him and opted for a challenging A Level programme of biology, physics and chemistry to help secure an essential university place.

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Callum who had a rocky start to his education. “I originally started my A Levels at another college but I felt misguided about my predicted grades so I started to look at other places to study. My mum knew people who had studied at Gateshead College and said they had really enjoyed it."

Callum said: “I owe a lot to the college; I got loads of support helping to get my university place. Everyone has a ‘yes we can’ attitude, they sorted things out quickly for me, gave me some great advice and we managed to hit all the deadlines.”

The care and attention that we receive from our teachers is second to none. We feel part of a sixth form family.
Ben Priestly

OLIVER JAMES

Studied: Biology, chemistry and business

Now: McNeece University, Louisiana, USA

Choosing biology, chemistry and business A Levels, athlete Oliver opted to study at Gateshead College Sixth Form after seeing the amazing sporting facilities.

He said: “I’ve always loved athletics but also wanted to get my A-levels; Gateshead College Sixth Form allowed me to do both.”

Oliver’s timetable was tailored to allow him to train two days a week and compete in national competitions and championships. 

“The training, support and encouragement, especially from my strength and conditioning coach, have been amazing, I’ve really built a rapport with both my tutors and coaches and feel confident in moving on to further study and a successful career.”

Oliver’s academic and sporting success allowed him to progress onto an athletic scholarship at McNeece University in Louisiana, USA. Oliver is now ranked 7th in the UK for under 23 3000m.