Derby College Group gears up for one of its biggest ever exam seasons

DCG's Joseph Wright Campus building (Credit: DCG)

Derby College Group is in the midst of one of its most significant exam periods of the year, with a major logistical operation underway across its sites to ensure every student has the best possible conditions in which to succeed.

This month alone, DCG has allocated approximately 5,500 individual exam sittings across 210 rooms, with 380 members of staff assigned to support the operation. Careful planning has ensured appropriate cover across all sessions, with staff rostered efficiently to provide the best possible experience for every student.

Helen O’Neill, Examinations Manager at Derby College Group, said: “Coordinating an operation of this scale takes months of planning and the dedication of hundreds of people, but it is always worth it. At the heart of everything we do is making sure that each student walks into their exam room feeling calm, prepared and well supported. When you see students leave having given their best, that is what makes it all worthwhile.”

The scale of the undertaking reflects both the size of Derby College Group as one of the East Midlands’ largest further education providers, and its commitment to delivering a well-organised, calm and supportive experience for every student sitting exams, whether at GCSE, A level or vocational qualification level.

Exams at schools and colleges nationally run from 7th May through to 23rd June 2026, with A-level results day on 13th August and GCSE results day on 20th August. For many students, this period marks a significant milestone, opening doors to university, apprenticeships and careers.

Derby College Group is encouraging all students to attend every exam and give it their very best effort. Those results, whatever the subject or level, are the gateway to the next chapter, whether that is a place at university, an apprenticeship, employment or further study. Every exam taken is a step forward, and the college wishes all its students the very best as they work towards those important results days in August.

Thinking about next year? Now is the perfect time to find out more!

With exam season in full swing, Derby College Group is also encouraging young people considering their post-16 options to start thinking ahead. Research consistently shows that students who explore their options early, visit colleges and make informed decisions are better placed to secure places on the courses they want and to settle confidently into college life from day one.

DCG is hosting an open evening at the Roundhouse on Wednesday 4th June 2026, giving prospective students and their families the chance to tour the facilities, meet teaching staff, explore the full range of courses on offer and ask all the questions that matter.

Whether you are considering A levels, vocational qualifications or a combination of both, Derby College Group offers a welcoming, high-achieving environment with strong pastoral support and an outstanding track record of students progressing to top universities, apprenticeships and rewarding careers.

Register now for the open evening by clicking here.