Derby College Group A Level Successes 2025

Twins - Lucy and Chloe (right) Knights are celebrating today with them achieving excellent results in A Levels. With Lucy gaining Biology (B) Business (B) and Psychology (A*) and Chloe gaining Biology (c) Business (B) and Psychology (A).

On the 14th August, the atmosphere across Derby College Group (DCG) campuses was filled with excitement and anticipation as hundreds of students collected their A Level, T Level and BTEC results. 

For many, these grades represent the culmination of years of study and the gateway to the next chapter – whether that’s university, apprenticeships, or stepping straight into the world of work.

The Class of 2025 has plenty to celebrate. This year’s results reflect not only the determination and resilience of DCG students, but also the dedication and expertise of the teaching staff who have supported them every step of the way. Standout performances have been recorded across all qualifications, demonstrating the strength and breadth of learning at the college.

For A Level students, the results have been particularly impressive. The majority have secured the grades they need to take up their first-choice university places, highlighting the quality of teaching and the commitment shown by learners.

A closer look at the figures shows that 327 students completed A Levels this year, with more than three-quarters achieving higher grades. Psychology delivered exceptional results – half of the cohort earned A*–B grades, alongside a 100% pass rate. Other high-achieving subjects included Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Language, Business Studies and Media Studies.

Criminology maintained its popularity as the most chosen subject, taken by over a third of all A Level students. An impressive three-quarters achieved grades A*–C, and again the pass rate was 100%. DCG also broadened its curriculum this year, offering Arabic, Urdu and Russian for the first time.

In addition, 101 students completed the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), with 50% gaining an A* or A grade. This challenging programme develops advanced research and independent learning skills that are highly prized by universities and employers alike.

Sally Archer, Head of A Levels at Derby College Group, commented: “This year’s results are a testament to the effort, resilience and determination our students have shown throughout their studies. We are immensely proud of what they have achieved and the positive foundations they have built for the future.

"Whether they are heading to university, beginning an apprenticeship, or stepping into the workplace, they leave DCG equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive. I would also like to pay tribute to our dedicated staff, whose commitment, guidance and encouragement make such a difference every day.”

There were so many stories of exceptional achievement, and the following is a selection of them:

A Level student Willow Sutherland (above right) is off to study journalism at the University of Sheffield after achieving A*s in English Language and Business and a B in Art.

Willow, 18, from Chaddesden, said: “I’ve always loved writing, so I’m really happy to be on the journalism course. My predicted grades were AAB, and I’m so pleased to have exceeded those and got a place at my first-choice university. I’ve enjoyed college – especially the English Language course – and am so grateful to my A Level teachers for all their help.”

Rose Cummings, 18, from Hilton, also exceeded expectations, gaining A grades in Maths and Biology and A*s in Psychology and EPQ. She had been predicted to get ABB grades with an A in EPQ. She is now going to Keele University to study for an integrated master’s degree in Physiotherapy.

Rose, who is neurodivergent, chose Derby College because both her brother and sister attended JWC. They had good experiences, and she was confident she would be learning in a supportive environment.

Rose added: “The teachers were so understanding and accommodating of my needs. I’ve enjoyed the longer lessons and the chance to meet a mix of different people before I go off to university.”

Rose’s sister Hazel also achieved top A Level grades at JWC two years ago and is currently studying Geology at Keele, where she is on course for a first-class honours degree.
 
Pavdeep Hundai could not be happier with her A Level results. Pavdeep, 19, from Chaddesden, thought she had got a U in her Business A Level but was thrilled to discover she had achieved a D. She also secured grade Cs in Politics, Applied Law and EPQ, and has gained a place at the University of Derby to study Economics and Finance.

Pavdeep originally came to Derby College to do GCSE Plus after not getting the grades she wanted at school to move on to A Levels.

She said: “Without Derby College I would be lost. I am so grateful to everyone here and I will miss them so much. I’ve chosen to study Economics and Finance at uni as it’s a broad area, but I’d quite like to work in finance – maybe as a financial analyst. I’m the first person in my family to go to university. They’re so happy and proud of me.”

A level student Mik Nowak also did better than expected, achieving straight As rather than his predicted AAB in Biology, Chemistry and Maths.

Mik, 18, from Uttoxeter, is now heading to the University of Nottingham to study Biochemistry.  

He said: “I’m not sure what I’d ultimately like to do, but I’ve always enjoyed Biology and Chemistry, so the course appealed to me. I’ve enjoyed doing A Levels at college – it’s more relaxed and casual than sixth form. I’d recommend JWC.”