Author Archives: PPC Admin
We’re hosting an Inclusion Coffee Morning at Prior Pursglove College on Tuesday 3rd February, from 10am to 12pm, and we’d love to see you there.
This relaxed, informal event is open to current and prospective Level 2 and Endeavour students, along with their parents and carers. Whether you’re already part of our college community or considering joining us, this is the perfect opportunity to have an open conversation about your learning journey.
What to expect
The morning is designed to be as flexible as you need it to be. You can drop in at any time between 10am and 12pm – there’s no need to book or arrive at a specific time. Come for ten minutes or stay for the full two hours, whatever works for you.
Our support and teaching teams will be on hand to chat about the help available, discuss your current progress, and talk through your next steps. It’s a chance to ask any questions you might have in a friendly, pressure-free environment.
Who should come?
This event is ideal for:
- Current Level 2 and Endeavour students who want to discuss their progress or explore additional support
- Prospective students who are thinking about joining Prior Pursglove College and want to learn more about our Level 2 programmes
- Anyone who’d like to talk about the support we offer to help students achieve their goals
- Parents and carers who want to understand how we can support their young person
Why attend?
At Prior Pursglove College, we’re committed to ensuring every student has the support they need to succeed. This coffee morning gives you the chance to meet the people who can make a real difference to your experience here, explore our facilities, and get a feel for what studying with us is really like.
There’s no formal presentation or agenda – just genuine conversations over a cup of tea or coffee about what matters to you.
Getting involved
If you’d like to attend or want more information, please get in touch.
We look forward to welcoming you on 3rd February.
The new year is the perfect time to invest in yourself. Whether you’re helping children with homework, looking to boost your career prospects, or simply want to learn something new, our adult maths and English courses could be exactly what you need.
We’re holding an enrolment and information event on Wednesday 21st January from 4pm to 6pm at Prior Pursglove College. Come along and chat with us about the courses we offer and how they can work around your life and commitments.
Our adult learning programmes are flexible and supportive, designed for people who might not have studied for a while or who want to build confidence in these essential subjects. There’s no judgment, just encouragement and practical teaching that makes a real difference.
Join us at the event to discover what’s possible when you take that first step. If you can’t make it but want to find out more, drop Michelle an email at michelle.kelso@atomix.ac.uk. Let’s make this the year you expand your opportunities and enhance your future.
Students and staff recently returned from an extraordinary trip to Peru, where they experienced the perfect combination of cultural discovery, community service, and personal growth.
The journey began on 27th November with an evening departure from the UK. After more than eleven hours in the air, the group landed safely in Bogota before taking their final flight to Cusco. Despite the exhaustion from travelling, the team arrived in good spirits and were greeted with a traditional welcome dinner that offered their first taste of Peruvian hospitality.
The highlight of the trip came when students and staff visited Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains. The breathtaking views and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site left everyone in awe. One member of staff described the experience as looking ‘unreal’ and suggested it was like ‘looking at Curry’s expensive TVs’ – such was the stunning clarity and beauty of the landscape.
Beyond sightseeing, the group embraced meaningful community engagement. Students spent a morning at a local nursery where they painted colourful playground games and refreshed existing artwork. This hands-on project gave them the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to the local community whilst developing their practical skills and cultural awareness. The day continued with a pottery class, where students could explore traditional Peruvian crafts and techniques.
Throughout the trip, students also enjoyed recreational activities, including football matches where they could connect with local young people through sport. The group returned home with memories that will last a lifetime, having gained a deeper understanding of Peruvian culture, history, and community life.
Geology has recently undergone a Practical Endorsement Visit at Prior Pursglove College. Rachel Heath received a glowing report from the external assessor, which is testament to the hard work she has put into developing the Geology course since arriving in January 2024.
Rachel has designed a Geology course where learners complete practical tasks both inside and outside the classroom with great success. The developed practical tasks are enabling learners to make strong links between theory and practice in Geology.
The external assessor remarked on the excellent level of feedback given by Rachel Heath to the students through individual comments on their work and RAG rating performance against set out benchmarks. These comments enable learners to develop a wide range of practical skills to a high level. All learners were able to articulate which of the practical performance measures they have met and which ones they still needed to meet.
In addition, the moderated commended the high standards of health and safety established by Rachel in Geology Lab and the compliance of learners with these standards.
Learners demonstrated competence with future study and employability skills during this visit too. The assessor commented on the students’ ability to competently perform referencing, write a risk assessment and both manipulate and analyse gathered data.
The engaging learning environment and the students’ enthusiasm to conduct practical work in Geology was central to the whole report. Both of these would not be possible without Rachel’s efforts and the enthusiasm she displays in the classroom.
Prior Pursglove Performing Arts’ production of Hadestown: Teen Edition.
Opening Night/Friday Matinee: Hermes: Lucy Sauron, Persephone: Mirabell Omoghare, Hades: Carly Whelpdale, Orpheus: Maisie Pearson, Eurydice: Emily Couhig, Fates: Ida Mitchel, Elizabeth Daley, Pearl Laycock
Thursday Night Friday Night: Hermes: Romy White, Persephone: Eva Jones, Hades: Finlay Cadman, Orpheus: Sayf-Udeen Zahoor, Eurydice: Eva Campbell, Fates: Martha Brayshaw, Eden Hockney, Nell Boag
Book your tickets: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/priorpursglovecollege/hadestown-teen-edition/e-vzpjjd
We genuinely cannot wait to welcome you to college life. We know that starting somewhere new can feel a little daunting, but rest assured that you’re joining a community that’s absolutely committed to helping you succeed.
Please join us at 9am, 2nd September, where it all begins. Don’t worry about finding your way around just yet – there will be plenty of friendly staff positioned throughout the college to help guide you exactly where you need to be. Our team will be on hand to answer any questions, help you settle in, and ensure your first day runs smoothly.
If for any reason you’re unable to attend, please email the college as soon as possible so we can arrange an alternative time to get you started.
This is the start of something special. Whether you’re here to pursue A Levels, explore new subjects, or take the next step towards your career goals, it all begins here. We’re incredibly excited to be part of your journey and to help you discover just how much you’re capable of achieving.
See you at 9am – your future starts here!
The start of a new academic year brings excitement, but we understand it can also bring uncertainty. If you’re feeling unsure about your college choice or having second thoughts about where you’d like to study, you’re not alone – and more importantly, it’s not too late to explore your options.
At Prior Pursglove College, we believe that finding the right educational path is crucial to your success and happiness. Whether you’re reconsidering your current plans, looking for advice about course options, or simply want to discuss what might work best for your future aspirations, our doors are always open for a friendly, no-pressure conversation.
Your Journey, Your Choice
We recognise that choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Perhaps your exam results were different from what you expected, or maybe you’ve realised that your initial choice doesn’t feel quite right anymore. These feelings are completely normal, and we’re here to support you through this transition.
Our experienced team understands the challenges that come with making these big decisions. We’ve helped countless students navigate their options, whether they’re looking to:
- Pursue A Levels with expert teaching and support
- Explore vocational programmes that lead directly to exciting career paths
- Complete essential GCSE resits in a supportive environment
- Find the perfect pathway through our specialist support departments
What matters most is finding the route that’s right for you.
We’re Ready When You Are
The beauty of education is that there are always opportunities to redirect your journey. If you’d like to visit us and see what we can offer, you’re welcome to come along to the college at any time during our opening hours. Our friendly reception team will be happy to arrange for you to speak with someone who can discuss your options in detail.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer to reach out via email first, our team is monitoring enquiries regularly and will respond promptly to help address any questions or concerns you might have. Sometimes a simple conversation can provide the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.
Supporting Your Success
What sets us apart at Prior Pursglove College is our commitment to ensuring every student finds their perfect fit. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to education. Instead, we take the time to understand your individual goals, circumstances, and aspirations before helping you choose the path that will best serve your future.
Our award-winning college has built its reputation on creating an environment where students thrive. From our dedicated teaching staff to our comprehensive support services, everything we do is designed to help you succeed – not just academically, but in developing the confidence and skills you’ll need for whatever comes next.
Take the Next Step
If any of this resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you. Getting in touch is completely straightforward:
- Visit us – Come along to the college during opening hours for an informal chat
- Call us – Ring our college reception on 01287 280800 to arrange a conversation
- Email us – Drop us a line and we’ll respond promptly to discuss your options
There’s no obligation when you get in touch – sometimes the most valuable thing we can offer is simply listening and providing honest, straightforward advice about your options. You might discover that we have exactly what you’re looking for, or we might help you clarify what you need to find elsewhere. Either way, you’ll leave our conversation feeling more confident about your next steps.
Your future is important, and the decision of where to study shouldn’t be rushed or made under pressure. Whether you’re ready to enrol with us or simply want to explore what might be possible, we’re here to support you in making the choice that feels right for your unique journey.
Your future starts with the next step you take – let us help you make it the right one.
Students were collecting their A-Level and B-Tec Qualification results at the Guisborough College last week
Students at the end of their time with Prior Pursglove College have praised the supportive teaching staff and friendly atmosphere at the Guisborough College, as they collected their A-Level results and B-Tec qualifications today.
The college reached a 97% pass-rate for A-Levels, including more than 40% at the high grades of A* to B.
Olivia Wytcherley, head of Prior Pursglove College, part of the Atomix Educational Trust, said the atmosphere at the college had been “fantastic,” as students collected their results.
“Students have performed brilliantly, and they’re going on to a range of destinations from Oxford and Cambridge to apprenticeships and employment,” she said.
This year, more Prior Pursglove students than before have been meeting or exceeding their target grades.
For B-Tec qualifications, 46% of students on these courses achieved a Distinction * or a Distinction.
Olivia said: “It’s amazing the range of emotions you get on results day.
“For teachers, it’s particularly pleasing to see those students who have overcome certain challenges while they have been here getting their results and seeing their hard work pay off.
“When students who have faced challenges or barriers achieve, witnessing that is what teachers go into education for.
“They are the students you come to work for.”
Olivia added the many teachers and managers, who attended the results day, also like to hear about the exciting opportunities they have helped students secure for next steps.
“For some students at the college, they will be the first people in their family to go to University,” she said.
“On results day, you see the life-changing side of qualifications that enable them to do that.
“When you hear them say they wouldn’t have reached this level unless they were encouraged by the staff here, that’s really rewarding.”
However, it’s not just about the teaching, as Olivia says staff are instrumental in helping them make the right decisions for them when it comes to their next steps.
“Some of our high flyers are doing degree apprenticeships and some are going straight into employment,” she said.
“We help them with whatever they need regardless of their next steps, whether it’s CV-writing, writing personal statements for university or helping them with interview techniques.
“It’s very important that the experience we deliver is not just around the academic teaching.”
All ten students who received an offer from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge have secured their places, the college’s best ever result:
Oxford
Alastair Dicken (Sacred Heart)– Biochemistry at Merton College:
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Oliver Amor (UCA) got A*s in Chemistry, Physics, Maths, and Further Maths.
“I’m going to study Chemistry at Oxford, Christchurch College,” he said.
“The teachers here are attentive and helpful, and it’s a wonderful environment.”
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Also going to Oxford:
SU Vice President Lola Steinhauser Somers (Ryedale) to read PPE at Wadham College and Lucy Kelly (Rye Hills) to read Biology at Merton College.
Megan Kelly (All Saints) studied Classical Civilisations, Spanish, and History.
“I got an A* in History, an A* in Spanish, and two As in my other subjects,” she said.
“I’m going to Oxford to study Spanish with Beginner’s Russian at Queen’s College
“The one word I’d use to describe my time here is “support” – everyone from staff to students has been supportive. I wouldn’t have applied to Oxford if it wasn’t for my teachers.”
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Lydia Walker (Rye Hills) is going to St Anne’s College to study Geography, after achieving an A* in Geography and As in Geology, Law and her EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).
She said: “I am really happy with my results and looking forward to going to Oxford to study Geography.
“I love the subject – it’s so broad – and Oxford is such a lovely University.
Lydia attended a summer school at the university before being encouraged to apply to study there, after doing a presentation at Christchurch College.
“I still can’t believe I actually got in,” she said.
“I’m going in October and I’m excited about it – I’m not nervous at all yet!
“My Mam got to travel down with me at one point and she liked it even though it’s four or five hours away, so we are all looking forward to it.”
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Cambridge:
Holly Buckworth (Stokesley) – Natural Sciences at Fitzwilliam College
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Sam Watson (Outwood Bydales) – Natural Sciences at Jesus College. Sam’s mum, Louise, also works at the college:
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Athlete Matthew Downs (LJS) got A*s in Geography, Geology, and Biology.
While studying for his A-Levels, he also travelled to Spain to compete in the Aquathlon at the World Championships, facing the gruelling challenge of a one-kilometre open water swim followed immediately by a five-kilometre run.
“I’m going to study Geography at Cambridge,” he said.
“I also competed at the World Championships Aquathlon in Spain, finishing ninth.
“Balancing training and A-levels was challenging, but I enjoyed my time here.”
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Sam Eddon (Freebrough) is also going to Cambridge to read Classics at Girton College
Stacey Williams studied Business and Maths.
“I got an A in maths and an A* in business,” she said.
“I’m going on to do an apprenticeship in accounting in September.
Speaking of life at Prior Pursglove College, she added: It’s been one of the most fun times of my life – very interesting and educational as well.”
Daisy Jackson studied Media Studies, Film Studies, and English Language & Literature, achieving an A in Media, an A in Film, and an A in English, which has led on to a Film and Television Production course at the University of York.
Speaking of life at Prior, Daisy said: “It’s been great – I’ve made lots of friends and had a really good time.”
Patrick Carter achieved Ds in Criminology and English and a Distinction in Law. He is now off to study Law at Northumbria University.
He said: “It wasn’t what I was targeted to achieve but I did my best and I’ve got to where I want to be at the end of the day.
“I want to be a law teacher eventually.”
Patrick, who was named ‘lead ambassador’ for the college in second year, admits he found College a lot tougher than secondary school, but the support of staff had been “really good”.
“I couldn’t recommend Prior Pursglove enough,” he said.
“It’s not just here for A-levels, there is an academic side but there is also a vocational side with B-Tec qualifications you can study for.
“My confidence has grown since becoming an ambassador and attending open days and promoting the college, so it’s not just about what you learn academically, as being at this college helps you build confidence.”
Angela Stephenson, deputy head at Prior Pursglove, said: “We aim to offer an inclusive and diverse curriculum where you can do a B-Tec or you can go down the traditional A-Level route – or you can also mix and match the two.
“We also have a new T-Level qualification we will be offering in Early Years in Education, which is starting in September.”
She added everyone at the college prides themselves on offering support and encouragement, saying: “We’re passionate about the sense of community and care we provide here.
“We want learners to achieve and do the best that they can do and we really want to be there helping them prepare for their next steps.”
Luke Myer, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland congratulated students as they picked up their results.
A former alumnus of Prior Pursglove College, he said: “I’m really proud to be back at Prior Pursglove, my old college, and I’m here today as MP to congratulate all the young people on their results.
“I have been blown away by the incredible young people we have got here.
“I also want to add that if you didn’t get the results you wanted, this is just one step in your journey.”
Remembering getting his own results, he added: “I was really nervous, but the staff were so supportive and being here gave me the foundation to go on in life and succeed.
“I’m really pleased we’ve got a college that works so hard to give young people the best opportunities.”
Enrolment for prospective students starts at the college on 21st August and we look forward to welcoming everyone.
Welcome!
We’re thrilled to welcome you to Prior Pursglove College for Enrolment Week – the first step towards an exciting and rewarding future! Whether you’re joining us for A Levels, Level 2 programmes, exploring options in our Higher Needs Endeavour Department, or needing to complete essential GCSE resits, we’re here to help you find the perfect path.
Our enrolment days will take place over four days and we’re ready to support you every step of the way.
If you’ve already applied, you should have received an enrolment pack with your specific appointment time based on your feeder school. But if you haven’t applied yet – don’t worry! There’s still a place for you. You can come along, apply, and enrol on the day.
Appointments are spread over four days to ensure a smooth and thorough enrolment experience for you and your family. Rest assured, there’s no need to stress about when your appointment is scheduled – we don’t operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No matter when you arrive, we guarantee there is a pathway for you at Prior Pursglove College!
When and Where?
Enrolment will take place at our Prior Pursglove campus on the following dates:
- Thursday 21st August: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday 22nd August: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday 26th August: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday 27th August: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Choosing the Right Path for You
We understand that the enrolment process can feel overwhelming, especially after exam results day. That’s why we want to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible.
- Don’t worry about spaces filling up – there’s a place for everyone, no matter when you come.
- If you’d prefer a quieter time with less waiting or want to chat with our friendly teaching team about your course options, consider visiting later in the enrolment window or during the final hours of the day.
- If you’re feeling anxious about your results and want to enrol earlier, feel free to come along at any time and we will slot you in as soon as we can.
What to Bring
Make sure to bring the following:
- Your GCSE results slip (official copy from your school)
- Any supporting documents requested, such as an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP)
What We’ll Help You With
- Finalising your course choices
- Offering advice if your grades are different from what you expected
- Discussing alternative options if needed
- Answering any questions about your transition to college
If you have any questions before results day, our college reception is open throughout the summer. Feel free to pop in or give our school liaison team a call on 01287 280800. We’re here to talk through your next steps and help you feel confident about starting your journey at Prior.
We can’t wait to meet you and help you begin your future at our award-winning college! See you at enrolment – it’s going to be an exciting year ahead!
Your future starts here. Let’s make it amazing, together!
Results Collection
- Location: Student Hub – Collect your grades and a breakdown of your results. Staff will be available to celebrate your achievements and provide support for next steps, including clearing and exam queries.
Accessing Results via CEDAR
Results will be available online from 8:00 AM, showing basic grade information.
- Log in with your college account details.
- Navigate to the Exam Section then Exam Results section.
Ensure you can access your CEDAR account before results day. If you need assistance, contact staff in advance.
Students Abroad on Results Day
If you are abroad, email ppc.enquiries@atomix.ac.uk to request international access to CEDAR. Please Include the country you will be in.
Results Collection by Parents/Guardians
- If you cannot collect your results, you can authorise a parent/guardian to collect them for you.
- Email ppc.enquiries@atomix.ac.uk with their details and permission.
- Your representative must bring ID, and we will make a copy.
UCAS Applicants
- If you’ve applied to university, your results will be sent to UCAS, who will forward them to your chosen university. If your grades change following a review, UCAS will update your university.
Missed Your Offers?
- If you didn’t meet your university offer, you may still find a suitable course through UCAS Clearing.
We are proud of all your hard work, no matter what your results show. We’re here to support you with your next steps, whether you continue on your planned path or explore new opportunities.
Good luck, and we look forward to seeing you on results day!
Join us for an exceptional celebration of musical talent at this year’s Prior Pursglove Summer Concert on Tuesday 24th June at 6.30pm in the Drama Studio. At just £3.50 on the door, this promises to be an evening that showcases the remarkable breadth of musical ability within our college community.
Our talented students have been working tirelessly to prepare a diverse programme that spans multiple genres and musical traditions. From contemporary pop and rock performances that capture the energy and spirit of today’s music scene to beautifully crafted classical pieces that demonstrate technical mastery and artistic interpretation, the evening will offer something to captivate every musical taste.
The concert will feature both intimate solo performances, where individual students can shine and display their personal musical journey, alongside dynamic ensemble pieces that highlight the collaborative spirit and collective musicianship that thrives at Prior Pursglove College. These ensemble performances demonstrate not only individual skill but also the students’ ability to work together harmoniously, creating something greater than the sum of its parts.
This annual summer concert represents more than just a performance opportunity—it’s a celebration of the creative arts within Atomix Educational Trust and a testament to the dedication of both our students and music department. The evening provides our performers with invaluable experience of live performance whilst giving our wider college and local community the chance to witness the exceptional talent that flourishes within our institution.
Whether you’re a family member, friend, staff member, or simply someone who appreciates live music, this concert promises to be a memorable evening that celebrates the artistic achievements of our students. The intimate setting of the Drama Studio ensures an engaging and personal experience for both performers and audience alike.
All are warmly welcome to attend this celebration of musical excellence. We look forward to seeing you there for what promises to be a truly inspiring evening of live performance.
On Wednesday 7th May, Prior Pursglove College hosted a landmark Power of Women event that brought together students from both Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College with 28 inspirational female industry leaders. The event, organised by Lesley Currie, Head of Department at Prior Pursglove, and Sophie McKenna, created a dynamic platform for students to connect with successful professionals and explore diverse career pathways.
The afternoon began with a vibrant networking masterclass and icebreaker “bingo” session, designed to build connections in a relaxed environment. Students then gained invaluable insights during a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring Theresa Carling, Sarah Heward, Kay Coleman and Christine Tarran, who shared their personal career journeys and professional experiences.
One of the highlights of the day was an energetic speed networking carousel, giving students the unique opportunity to engage directly with professionals from various sectors in rapid-fire conversations. This format allowed participants to ask questions and receive personalised advice in an intimate setting.
The event culminated with an inspirational keynote address from Bianca Robinson, who captivated the audience with her powerful message. Her presentation included a reflective activity titled “What Do You Stand For?”, encouraging students to identify causes they care about and commit to taking meaningful action. Many students volunteered their thoughts, creating a moment of genuine connection and purpose.
Michaela Reaney expertly hosted the proceedings, ensuring the day flowed seamlessly and maintained its focus on empowerment and opportunity.
Angela Stevenson, Deputy Head of Centre at Prior Pursglove College, reflected on the day’s success: “What an amazing day at Prior Pursglove College and Atomix Educational Trust. From network bingo to the role model panel, speed networking, and Bianca’s very inspirational talk—thank you to all the role models and our amazing students for attending, taking part and volunteering ideas and thoughts.”
The event exemplified Atomix Educational Trust’s commitment to providing students with experiences that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for future careers by connecting them with industry professionals and developing crucial networking skills.
Students left feeling inspired and equipped with practical advice for their next steps, having formed connections with successful women across various professions. The Power of Women event stands as a testament to Atomix Educational Trust’s dedication to empowering students and broadening their horizons as they prepare for life beyond college.
The UK’s best teachers and schools have been shortlisted in this year’s Tes Schools Awards. The awards, dubbed the ‘Oscars of education’, celebrate the best of education across the country. Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College has been shortlisted in the category of Staff Wellbeing School of the Year!
The Tes Schools Awards recognise the very best teachers and schools from UK state and independent schools, across early years settings, primary and secondary.
An expert panel of judges comprised of leaders in education selected a shortlist for 22 categories, with a new category added this year: ‘Inclusive Trust of the Year’. The final category, ‘Lifetime achievement award’, will be announced on the night.
Jon Severs, Editor of Tes Magazine, said: “We’ve seen some incredible entries nominated in this year’s awards. The Tes Schools Awards are a highlight of the year, and it’s important that we properly recognise the fantastic work that’s been done in education across the academic year.”
Winners will be announced on 20th June at a glittering gala at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London.
To find the shortlist online, please visit https://www.tes.com/en-gb/schools-awards
Computing teacher Paul Cullis has been presented with our official recognition as a Silver CyberFirst College. This is a nationally recognised accreditation by the National Cyber Security Centre that demonstrates our strong commitment to cyber security education. The proposal that was submitted was so strong that we completely skipped the Bronze award which most new proposals achieve, to immediately gain silver status, which is largely due to the team effort in delivering excellent standards in cyber security. A big thank you to everyone who helped with the proposal!
There have been a total of seven schools/colleges who achieved a CyberFirst accreditation recently and of these seven, only two schools/colleges have achieved a Silver award, Prior being one of them.
This now means that Prior Pursglove College has exclusive access to industry links including Quorn, The Police Force, and Cummins and at other local educational establishments who want to share their knowledge on cyber security and cyber education.
We also have opportunities for our students to access new pathways for work experience, apprenticeships, and degree apprenticeships in Cyber Security. There has never been a better time to study Computing-related courses at Prior Pursglove College. Well done to Paul and the team on this amazing achievement.
Chemistry students from Prior Pursglove College have achieved some phenomenal Chemistry Olympiad results!
Designed to challenge and inspire, the UK Chemistry Olympiad (UKChO) by Royal Society of Chemistry is a unique opportunity for students to push themselves further and excel in the chemistry field. Budding chemists develop critical problem-solving skills, learn to think more creatively and get a chance to test their knowledge in new, real-world situations. They could even find themselves representing the UK at the prestigious International Chemistry Olympiad. The students sat a 2 hour written exam comprised of 6 multi stage questions. The papers were then marked by James before submitting the marks to the RSC along with a sample of the papers.
From the 11 students entered from Prior, 4 were awarded gold and the remaining 7 awarded silver. All 11 Prior students were in the top 33.4% of the 16,216 entries with 4 students placed in the top 8%. These are some of the best results in the country and we are extremely proud of all the students. We also thank James Covell, our A-level Chemistry teacher for all his hard work and dedication in making these results possible. Keep on leading the way!
We are delighted to announce that 10 students from Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College have received conditional offers of a place at either Oxford or Cambridge for 2025.
The successful students at Prior Pursglove have worked hard to demonstrate a deep love for the subjects by achieving the highest grades at GCSE and in college assessments. They have also spent time independently researching their subject by reading beyond the curriculum, attending lectures and masterclasses and undertaking their own research through the Extended Project Qualification.
In order to secure an interview, the students were required to produce a high quality application and score well above average on an admissions test as well as submitting work to the universities. They prepared extensively for their interviews which are very different to the interviews given by most other universities; they are challenging academic discussions with highly qualified academics at the university who are assessing the students to see if they would be well suited to being taught in this way. To receive a conditional offer is a tremendous result and we are exceptionally proud of them all.
Students offered a place at Oxford include:
- Alastair from Sacred Heart – Biochemistry at Merton College
- Oliver from UCA – Chemistry at Christ Church College
- Lola from Ryedale – PPE at Wadham College
- Lucy from Rye Hills – Biology at Merton College
- Lydia from Rye Hills – Geography at St Anne’s College
- Megan from All Saints – Spanish and Beginner’s Russian at Queen’s College
Students offered a place at Cambridge include:
- Holly from Stokesley – Natural Sciences at Fitzwilliam College
- Sam from Outwood Bydales – Natural Sciences at Jesus College
- Matthew from Laurence Jackson – Geography at Girton College
- Sam from Freebrough – Classics at Churchill College
I am immensely proud and ecstatic to see years of hard work recognised by achieving this dream of mine, and excited to study alongside world-leading academics of my field. – Lola
Thanks to Prior’s encouragement, I dared to apply to Oxbridge—something I never would have thought possible before coming here. Being offered a place to study Geography at Cambridge feels like a fantastic acknowledgment of my passion for the subject. I am looking forward to immersing myself in such a vibrant academic environment and contribute to the ongoing dialogue in the field. – Matthew
The holiday break is a time for relaxation and celebration, but we also want to ensure all our students stay safe and look after their wellbeing. We understand that while holidays can be exciting, they can also bring challenges, especially when you’re away from your regular college routine and support networks.
During the break, it’s important to maintain good habits and take care of your mental health. This might mean keeping a regular sleep schedule, staying active, and finding ways to relax and unwind that work for you. Remember, there’s no “perfect” way to spend the holidays – what matters is finding a balance that helps you feel healthy and content.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious about the holiday period, we’ve provided some practical resources to help you manage stress and maintain positive wellbeing during this busy time.
If you’re planning to socialise during the break, we want you to stay safe. Always ensure your phone is charged, use trusted taxi services, and be aware of initiatives like “Ask for Angela” if you feel uncomfortable in bars or restaurants. It’s also crucial to know your limits and look after yourself and your friends when out celebrating.
Your digital wellbeing is equally important during the holiday period. While social media can help you stay connected with friends, remember to take regular breaks and be mindful of your online safety. This includes being careful about sharing personal information and being aware of potential online scams that often increase during the festive season.
Taking time for mindfulness and relaxation can be particularly helpful during the festive period. We’ve included a guided meditation exercise specifically designed to help you find moments of calm during the holiday season.
We’ve partnered with stem4 to provide access to NHS-recommended mental health apps that you can download for free. These apps offer practical tools for managing anxiety, maintaining positive mental health, and developing healthy coping strategies during potentially stressful periods.
Even though college is closed, support services remain available throughout the break:
- Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
- CAMHs Crisis Team (Under 18): 08000 516171
- Mental Health Crisis: Call 111 and select the mental health option
- Talk to Frank: 0300 123 6600
- Emergency Services: 999
When we return in January, our college support services will be ready to help if you need to talk about any concerns or challenges you’ve faced during the break. Until then, we encourage you to stay connected with friends, maintain a healthy routine, and remember that it’s okay to reach out for help if you need it.
From everyone at the college, we wish you a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to welcoming you back in the new year.
Prior Pursglove College’s Computer Science students have achieved remarkable success in their first-ever participation in the prestigious Bebras Computing Challenge, a national competition that tests computational thinking and problem-solving skills.
Students from both first and second year competed against peers from across the country, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication. Many students earned impressive accolades, including Merit and Distinction certificates, with several achieving Gold awards—placing them in the top 10% nationally.
The challenge, which tests students’ ability to think computationally and solve complex problems under time pressure, proved to be both challenging and engaging. One Gold award winner remarked, “It was very interesting and really challenged me, but most importantly made me think in a different, problem-solving way which I thoroughly enjoyed.”
The competitive element added extra excitement, with another student noting, “The added competition of beating your friends made you feel much more engaged to try hard and push your brain to finish all the questions correctly, and in time.”
Students particularly valued how the challenge connected to their classroom learning, with one participant explaining, “I thought that the Bebras challenge was a very fun challenge as there were questions of varying difficulty which tested the problem-solving I had built up from studying computer science.”
The success in the Bebras Challenge demonstrates Prior Pursglove College’s commitment to excellence in Computer Science education and highlights our students’ ability to compete at a national level. This achievement reflects not only the students’ hard work and talent but also the high-quality teaching and support provided by our Computer Science department.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the Computer Science, please visit our Computer Science course page. You can find our next open evenings here.
Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College (part of the Tees Valley Collaborative Trust) has been accredited to the matrix Standard, demonstrating the high quality Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) services they provide to their students.
The college, with campuses in Guisborough and Stockton-on-Tees, offers a wide range of courses to both young people and adult learners. With around 1,300 students aged 16-18, adult learners accessing Functional Skills and Learning Support Assistant courses, and a specialised programme for SEND learners, the college plays a pivotal role in the local educational landscape. This matrix assessment covered the work of the Endeavour Faculty, which supports students with Educational Health Care Plans and adult learners, all underpinned by Tees Valley Combined Authority funding.
The matrix Standard is the international quality standard for organisations that deliver information, advice, and/or guidance (IAG). Achieving this accreditation highlights the college’s commitment to offering tailored guidance that helps students and learners achieve their educational and career goals.
Roger Chapman, Head of the matrix Service for The Growth Company, said:
“This is a fantastic achievement for Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College, and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service, and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available. The matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas. With their accreditation success, Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College is working to provide the best possible support to their clients.”
Commenting on the award, Anne Donovan, Head of Lifelong Learning, said:
“We are incredibly proud to have achieved the matrix Standard accreditation. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff in ensuring that every student receives the best possible guidance and support, tailored to their needs and aspirations. We remain committed to continually improving our services and helping students make informed decisions about their futures.”
For more information about the matrix Standard, please visit www.matrixStandard.com.
We are extremely excited to announce that three of our students are participating in this year’s Sixth Form College Association ‘Planet Future’ National Art Exhibition.
The theme this year is Planet Future, and showcases students’ creative interpretation of the theme, and their reflections on how the world is changing and what its future holds.
The students selected to participate this year are:
Aden Ovington, and,
Eli Stephenson
Deputy Faculty Manager, Paul Sudlow said, ‘We are enormously proud that their hard work, fantastic ability and engaging imagery can be shared on a national platform. Well done all of you!!’
To view the SFCA online exhibition please use the link below where you can view our 3 entries alongside all the other national college entries.
https://www.sixthformcolleges.org/1784/sfca-art-exhibition-2022-planet-future
Aden Ovington, ‘Your Future Campaign’
Alicia Dempsey, ‘Understanding Cognition’
Eli Stephenson, ‘Planet or Plastic’
We are so proud of our student, Finley Easton who has beaten off over 4,000 physics students across the globe to win a coveted spot in the UK International Physics Olympiad team.
The British Physics Olympiad is an annual competition in which over 2000 students from the UK and over 2000 overseas students take part.
Following his British Physics Olympiad success, Finley was personally invited to attend a training camp at Oxford University. The camp is designed to develop students’ skills for the International Physics Olympiad, an international physics competition in which over 80 countries take part. Each country is invited to send a team of five students.
Olivia Wytcherley, Assistant Principal at Prior Pursglove College, said: “Finley did brilliantly at the training camp as he was successful in attaining a place on the UK International Physics Olympiad team, placing him in the top five physics students in the country. He is the first student from the college to have made it to the international finals. We are all so impressed with how well he has done and are all immensely proud of him. He has worked extremely hard and it is great to see his work pay off.”
Finley said, “The Physics Olympiad has been a great opportunity for me to challenge myself, explore Physics in more depth and think about the world in a new way. Throughout the series of competitions, I have had the chance to apply what I have learned during my A-level lessons to new and surprising contexts and develop my own problem-solving skills in the process. I’m looking forward to pushing myself even further at the IPhO this Summer.”
Well done Finley, we are all so proud of you.
See the full article here.
Alumni Professor Stephen Foley visited Prior Pursglove College last week to see how the college had changed since his student days. Professor Foley was one of the last students to join Guisborough Grammar School in 1973 and witnessed the college move to become Prior Pursglove. Since leaving college, Professor Foley studied for his degree at Southampton University, his Masters in Newfoundland and then spent time in Germany before completing his PhD in Tasmania in Geology. He is now Professor of Science at Macquarie University in Australia. Stephen enjoyed a tour of the college with Assistant Principal Mike Mackin before viewing the college archives where we found pictures of his year group and other memories linking back to his days at the college. He also shared his school report showing how times have changed and pointed out the comments from his teachers. He was keen to show students how hard work leads to success. Stephen took time to talk to Dr Kay Achenbach, teacher of Geology and we hope to establish future links and guest lectures with Professor Foley and the Macquarie University
Nine students from Prior Pursglove College have been offered places at either Oxford or Cambridge universities, the highest number in a decade.
Finley Easton, a former Huntcliff Secondary School student has received an offer to study Physics at Oxford. Finley said ‘I’m really happy to have been offered a place and am looking forward to studying at Oxford.’
Former Freebrough Academy student, Faith Greensmith has received an offer to study English Language and Literature whilst Eirinn Hannaway and Rory Mitchell have both received offers to study Chemistry at Oxford. Former Outwood Academy Bydales student, Emily Thompson has received an offer to study Experimental Psychology.
Principal Asma Shaffi said, ‘Our students consistently work hard in mastering their subjects and impressing these highly prestigious universities with their sterling performance. Their grit and determination really benefit the Tees Valley area and the North East in creating recognition for the talent we have here.’
Four students have been successful in securing offers to study at Cambridge. Naomi Fester, Alex Harrison-Gaze and Alyssa Sequera have offers to study Architecture and Sciences and Olivia Sinclair has received an unconditional offer to study Veterinary Medicine.
Joanna Bailey, CEO for Tees Valley Collaborative Trust said, ‘ This success demonstrates that Prior Pursglove College is attracting many of the most talented young people in Redcar & Cleveland. They are supported by our expertly skilled teachers and support staff, enabling them to access the most competitive and prestigious destinations.’
The latest edition of our college newsletter – Priority News is now available.
Priority News – edition 2
Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College is celebrating results day triumph as students collected the grades enabling them to successfully progress to their chosen destination.
A Level results include:
- Pass rate over 99%
- 95% subjects achieved 100% pass rates
- 50 at PPC and 34 at SSFC A* grades achieved
- Around 60% students achieved A*, A or B
Asma Shaffi, Principal at Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College, said:
“We are exceptionally proud of our students and the results they have achieved.
“These results reflect well upon our incredibly hard working and dedicated staff and students across the college.
“Their tremendous hard work and utmost resilience have made these results a huge success story for themselves, and this can only help to pave their way to their chosen courses at university, apprenticeship and employment opportunities.
“I would like to extend my best wishes to every student leaving us this summer.”
A group of students from Prior Pursglove College in Guisborough were working towards their A Levels when the pandemic hit last year. They quickly had to adapt to online learning and try to stay on track with their studies.
During that time with almost daily contact via Microsoft Teams with their progress tutor Chris Beadle, an idea was born to pull together their experiences during a pandemic and make them into a book.
The book ‘Lockdown, the experiences of a generation of students from Prior Pursglove College’ is made up of thoughts and observations that reflect the very real difficulties of the last year, together with the resilience, determination, maturity and inventiveness of the coping strategies the students have used in response to this unprecedented situation.
Chris, who is classed as clinically vulnerable spent most of lockdown in isolation still working from home. The almost daily contact with his tutees via Teams helped keep him focussed and involved and was hugely beneficial to his mental well-being.
Progress Tutor at Prior Pursglove College, Chris Beadle said:
“The honesty, resourcefulness, maturity and inventiveness of these students in dealing with this unprecedented pandemic touched me deeply, as did they ways they found to counteract the restrictions of what should have been a socially busy, exciting time of preparation for adulthood.
“As restrictions began to lift, I realised that it would be a tragedy if the experiences of this generation of students was simply passed over and forgotten. Future generations could learn so much from their resilience and so I discussed this with Lesley Currie, a Deputy Faculty Manager at Prior.
“She had the foresight and compassion to agree that we should find a way of marking the events of the last year and was resourceful enough to find sufficient funding to produce the College book.
“The response from the students was magnificent – honest, often raw and sometimes humorous – perfectly demonstrating how remarkable young people are.
“I am proud to have been the conduit of their thoughts and observations, and equally proud to be part of an organisation that shows such respect and compassion towards the young people in their educational care.”
The students involved in the book have recently left the college and will go onto a number of different destinations including university, apprenticeships and the workforce.
A student involved in the book, Tori Swainston said of her time studying at Prior Pursglove College:
“Prior Pursglove College is really the place to go when moving onwards and upwards to achieve your goals and dreams through everything.”
A digital copy of the book can be found here.
Today sees the launch of Fake News, an online exhibition of pictures created by sixth form college students. The exhibition showcases students’ creative interpretation of the Fake News theme, and their reflections on how hard it can be to distinguish fact from fiction. More than 250 students from 58 colleges submitted their artwork for the exhibition that runs from 1st to 22nd July 2021. The exhibition is being co-ordinated by the Sixth Form Colleges Association and all pictures can be viewed on the SFCA gallery website here.
Launching today’s exhibition, Bill Watkin, Chief Executive of the Sixth Form Colleges Association, said:
“The Fake News exhibition is a celebration of the arts and a recognition of the excellence in sixth form colleges, which are a vital supply pipeline of talented artists. But it also highlights how young people feel about having to navigate the vast amount of news and information that is available in the modern world, and at the same time, to discern what is the truth. Art has always played an important role in social and political commentary, and the students featured in Fake News have shown they have the talent to communicate their feelings about this important subject in a powerful and effective way”.
Students featured in the exhibition from Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College are:
Emily Thompson (Former Outwood Academy Bydales), Charlotte Everall (Former Caedmon College Whitby), Daniel Taylorson (Former Nunthorpe School), Malaika Hanif (Former Ian Ramsey) and Joshua Hudson (Former Outwood Academy Bishopsgarth).
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Daniel Taylorson – ‘All is Not as it Seems’
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Joshua Hudson – ‘Destiny’
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Charlotte Everall – ‘Environmental Crisis Denial’
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Malaika Hanif – ‘We British’
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Emily Thompson – ‘Influencer Pressure’
Securing a university place can be tough but when it comes to competitive courses like midwifery the competition can be fierce.
Prior Pursglove College student Ollie Thrower has wanted to be a Midwife from the age of 6 and it’s a goal she has been working towards for a long time.
From volunteering at a local Care Home to being a therapeutic care volunteer and maternity volunteer at James Cook Hospital, Ollie has managed to gain valuable work experience in the field.
When it was time to apply to university through UCAS Ollie didn’t know what to expect but she was blown away when she discovered she had secured not one, but four conditional university offers.
The Former Freebrough Academy pupil said:
“I feel so incredibly lucky to have been given the chance to study midwifery, it’s a goal I have been working towards for what feels like forever and It feels incredible to finally be at this point.
“There are so many reasons why I want to be a midwife, but I would say what made me want to be one in the first place was the experiences of my Mam. The way she spoke about the care she received, both positive and negative, makes me want to be the best midwife that I can be, and be there in partnership with every woman in my care, no matter their circumstances.”
Ollie also wanted to offer advice for anyone who was thinking of studying midwifery at university:
“People will tell you that it is hard because midwifery is competitive. What I would say is that yes, it’s hard, but if you work hard, you can do it. If you feel like midwifery is the career for you, and you’re passionate about it, absolutely go for it and put your all into it, it is hard yes, but it is not impossible.”
She also went on to add:
“I’d like to thank my health and social care teachers Jill Woodrow and Carole Blades for being so supportive, and for helping me with my application. Despite the challenges of lockdown and online learning they have always gone out of their way to support me to get to where I am now, and for that I am so grateful.”
Four students from Prior Pursglove College have been offered places at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, after beating thousands of applicants to receive conditional offers.
The Sixth Formers impressed with their applications and at interview and now have offers to study a number of different courses at the two of the most elite universities in the world.
Successful Cambridge applicants include former Sacred Heart pupil Rebecca Brooke, who received an offer to study Computer Science, and Hannah Richmond a former Freebrough Academy pupil who received an offer to study Medicine.
Rebecca said: “I was surprised and excited to receive an offer from the University of Cambridge and I am very grateful for all the support that the staff at Prior have given me throughout the application process.”
Hannah said: “After such an arduous application process, it’s a huge relief to have succeeded especially with so much uncertainty with COVID. I’m thrilled to be able to study at one of the only remaining traditional medicine courses that put a lot of emphasis on the medicinal sciences.”
Successful Oxford applicants include Gracie Forrest, the former Huntcliff pupil who has received an offer to study Medicine, and Katarina Harrison-Gaze a former Caedmon College Whitby pupil, who received an offer to study Languages.
Gracie said: “I was really pleased to receive an offer from Oxford. During COVID restrictions it was difficult to gain work experience in Medicine but my local care home Lauriston gave me a chance to volunteer. I am really grateful to them and my college tutors for helping to secure an offer.”
Katarina said: “I am delighted to have received an offer, even though I am still slightly shocked. I’m very excited to be given this opportunity to study subjects I’m passionate about at the University of Oxford.
The college is not only extremely proud of the bumper crop of Oxbridge offers received this year, but equally of all of their students who are receiving offers from universities around the country, as well as apprenticeships and employment.
Former Freebrough Academy student Ollie Thrower, who is now studying Health & Social Care & Biology at the college has received 4 offers to study Midwifery which is one of the most competitive fields to go into.
Ollie said: “I’ve wanted to do this job from the age of 6 and have only ever been told it was too hard, and to choose something else! So, I’m blown away by my offers. If Anyone who is thinking of applying for Midwifery should go for it!”
Principal of Prior Pursglove College, Asma Shaffi said:
“It is an exceptional achievement for our college that so many students have received offers from such prestigious places. Credit is due to our talented and dedicated staff who support our gifted students, enabling them to reach their full potential and in some cases exceed their own aspirations.
“We are delighted that all of their hard work and dedication is paying off; they are a real credit to the college. We wish them every success.”
