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Ashton Sixth Form's Principal pays tribute to staff and students

Ashton Sixth Form College say the vast majority of its students will progress to their first choice universities, higher level apprenticeship providers and into the world of work after receiving their A-Levels and BTEC level three qualifications on Thursday. 

The Darnton Road college, which was rated as Outstanding by Ofsted back in January, received their awarded grades after what it says has been a "challenging and unprecedented year of uncertainty". 

But, after an interrupted year as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic in which exams were cancelled, the college say students marked the end of their sixth form careers by gaining the qualifications they have worked hard for.

Grades were awarded based on their teachers' assessment of their likely grade, based on performance throughout their time at the college, which were then moderated at national level by the awarding bodies supervised by Ofqual. But there is still some concern about the validity of a number of results across the country which have been downgraded. 

However, that aside, the college's Principal, Anton McGrath, said he is "extremely proud" of their students who have "withstood the enormous stresses and strains" caused by the pandemic and paid tribute to staff for their dedication. 

He said: "Although today will feel different for many students, the dedication, ability and resilience of all students completing their studies today cannot be questioned.

"We are extremely proud of the achievement of all of our students receiving awarded grades today. The class of 2020 have withstood the enormous stresses and strains of the past six months through lockdown and have demonstrated their enormous potential over the past two years at the college.

"It is fantastic to see our students progress onto their chosen destinations in spite of the difficulties they faced, and we look forward to hearing about their ongoing success."

Mr McGrath went on: "I would also like to pay tribute to all staff at the college who taught, supported and cared for all of our students as we worked from home. The care and attention shown by all classroom teachers when arriving at Centre Assessed Grades for each of our students exemplified the quality, professionalism and dedication of our staff.

"Whilst there is some concern about the validity of a number of results across the country, no-one can underestimate the quality of the students who are leaving us today. Together, our staff and students should take satisfaction in a job well done.

"Our community’s strength has come to the fore during these unprecedented times and I am sure that the experiences our students have had over the last two years will support them in their development in the future. Well done to all and the best of luck!”

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