Left to right: James Rowe, Noah McManus-Wood, Manisha Koolman and Aaron Daly

Harlow College is celebrating its latest set of impressive A Level results, with high achieving students bucking the national trend of falling top grades by securing an impressive 27% pass rate for the top A* and A grades, compared to the national average of 25.9%. This is also a rise of 3% from 2014, making it our best year ever for top grade A Level results.

Not only that but 54% of the passes were at grades A*-B and 85% were at grades A*-C. Again, these results are higher than the national average of 53% for grades A*-B and 77% for grades A*-C.

"The overriding message from this year's figures is one of stability. There have been no significant changes to the system," said Michael Turner, director of the Joint Council for Qualifications.

Becky Jones, Assistant Principal of Harlow College said:

"This year we have seen more students than ever taking A Levels and progressing to university, with many gaining prestigious places at top universities such as King's College London, Warwick, Newcastle, Southampton and the London School of Economics (LSE). This also includes students progressing from our equally successful BTEC courses. A big thank you goes to everyone who has supported them, particularly our staff who are committed to helping them achieve bright futures."

Robert Halfon, MP for Harlow was equally enthusiastic:

"Yet again, Harlow College has had outstanding results. I am proud that we have the best college in England and congratulate staff and students. Harlow is not just open for business and jobs, but the finest skills and education too. No wonder this has been recognised by the Prime Minister. Another reason to be proud of Harlow."

Tracy Greenall, Head of Sixth Form said:

"The excellent A Level results achieved by Harlow College Sixth Form are testament to the focus and dedication of all involved, both students and staff. The hard work the students have shown during their A Levels will prepare them well for the challenges of university or employment and we wish them the very best for the future."

Among the many students who achieved excellent results were:

James Rowe, 18, from Harlow
Maths A*, Physics A, ICT A, Further Maths B
Going to the University of Surrey to study Maths.

James taught himself AS Further Maths having not done the subject in his first year. This was in addition to studying A2 Further Maths at the same time alongside his three other A Level subjects.

"Only when I came to Harlow College did I realise I had a talent for maths. Once I graduate I'd like to work a year in industry, either in accounting, as an actuary or in operations research. I'd like to thank all the staff at Harlow College – they were all really supportive."

Noah McManus-Wood, 18, from Harlow
Environmental Science A*, Biology A, Sociology A
Going to the University of Warwick to study Biomedical Sciences.

Noah started a Level 3 International Baccalaureate at Hockerill Anglo-European College in Bishops Stortford but the first year didn't work out as desired so he started his A Levels at Harlow College and has since blossomed.

"I'm feeling great! I wasn't expecting those results. The Sixth Form at Harlow College has been really good. The staff are really supportive and focused. My aim is to go into the medical profession once I graduate, hopefully in a research capacity."

Manisha Koolman, 18, from Epping
Business A, Government & Politics A, History A, French B
Going to King's College London to study Business Management.

Manisha decided to continue studying four full A Levels despite universities only requiring three, due to her enjoying studying so much. All this was in addition to her being a Student Ambassador for the college, volunteering for all open days and evenings and working tirelessly to support the Sixth Form department.

"I finally feel that all my hard work has paid off. I've worked tirelessly for this for the last 2 years and for me to secure my place at King's is really mind blowing! My dream career is to be involved in business within the music industry, which was always my first love. During my second year I'm hoping to go to California to explore my music industry opportunities.

Harlow College has not just been another step in my education but has helped me evolve as a person. I want to tell everyone how great it is here!"

Aaron Daly, 18, from Epping
Maths A*, Further Maths A, Business A
Going to Newcastle University to study Maths

"I'm so happy! I couldn't have asked for better results. I want to work in the City once I graduate – ideally in banking. I plan to get my foot in the door and work my way up.

I've really enjoyed my time at Harlow College. It's really flown by and I want to thank all my tutors for their amazing support."

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