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Gower College Swansea is celebrating another year of outstanding achievement when it comes to exam results and progression to the UK’s top universities.
Students following the College’s GCS Honours programme have secured almost 200 Russell Group university places between them.
In September, these students will be heading to Cardiff University (73 places secured), University of Bristol (25), University of Exeter (23), University of Southampton (9), University of Warwick (9), University of Birmingham (7), University of Manchester (7), King’s College London (6), University of Oxford (4), University of Sheffield (4), London School of Economics (3), University of Leeds (3), University of Liverpool (3), University of Cambridge (2), University of Nottingham (2), Durham University (2), UCL (2), Newcastle University (1), University of Edinburgh (1), and the University of York (1).
Twenty of these students are set to study medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine at higher education level.
In addition, six Gower College Swansea students have now confirmed their places at Oxford and Cambridge Universities starting this September.
“We are really delighted with these success stories,” says Nikki Neale, Vice Principal of Curriculum, Quality and Teaching and Learning. “200 Russell Group places confirmed represents almost 20% of our overall UCAS applicant cohort which is an amazing achievement.
“We aim to add value to every learner’s experience, supporting them in their education to be able to fulfil their future ambition. I believe that our exceptional exam results and outstanding progression is a testimony to this.”
This year, the College has seen a rise in its overall A Level pass rate, reaching an outstanding 99%, with 1,164 individual exam entries. This result notably surpasses the Welsh national average of 97.4%, highlighting the College’s commitment to academic excellence.
Among these results, 33% of grades awarded were A*- A, again surpassing the national average of 29.9%. Furthermore, 60% of grades were A*-B, and an impressive 84% achieved A*- C, reflecting the consistently high standards maintained by the College.
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The GCS Honours Programme at Gower College Swansea provides learners with an exceptional academic support package for making competitive university applications that includes: weekly critical thinking tutorials; participation in Welsh Government’s Seren Academy (for which the College is the Hub Lead); Oxbridge preparation such as tutorials and university visits; subject specific masterclasses; mock interview and admissions tests; and help with personal statements. The College’s MDV Programme can also help facilitate work experience opportunities.
With more than 80 members of staff in dedicated student support roles, Gower College Swansea ensures all A Level and vocational learners receive help with their courses, personal needs and well-being.
All students have access to progress coaches, pastoral coaches and personal tutors, with many lecturers spending time with learners outside of regular lessons to keep them on track. Students can also access financial support and assistance.