Despite a challenging start to the academic year, we’ve had great success with this year’s UCAS application cycle, with students applying to a range of universities and courses. Of a total of 111 applications made, 80 students made at least one application to a Russell Group university, showing their high aspirations to attend some of the best institutions in the country. Our students are broadening their geographic horizons by considering universities across the country, from local universities like Durham and Newcastle, to those further afield including Bangor, Essex, St Andrew’s and Queen’s University Belfast. This eclectic year group will be studying a range of subjects, ranging from creative subjects like stage management, dance and interior design, science-based disciplines like physics, automotive engineering and computer science, and vocational courses like medicine, midwifery, social work and primary education.