VOCATIONAL students at York College celebrated a great set of results.

More than half the year group, 331 students (54 per cent), got triple distinction grades in their level 3 courses, of which 192 were triple distinctions (D*D*D*) - the highest grade (equivalent to 3 A*s at A Level).* Individual vocational subjects received excellent results, including 93 per cent triple distinction or better in business, 81 per cent in musical theatre, 75 per cent in acting, 73 per cent in performing arts production and 67 per cent in construction.

Amongst hundreds of highly successful students is Sam Ward (previously of Malton School) who studied the extended diploma in applied science - achieving D*D*D*. His fantastic results enabled him to take up the offer of one of 12 places in the UK to study to be a naval nurse. Sam will begin basic training at HMS Raleigh naval base in Cornwall before starting a degree in adult nursing at Birmingham City University in December, alongside his naval ceremonial duties.

Sam, a volunteer with The British Red Cross, said: “I came to York College to study applied science after failing my AS Levels elsewhere. After deciding I wanted to become a medic in the navy, I saw a massive improvement in my grades whilst studying at College and this allowed me to apply for the higher position of naval nurse. This experience made me appreciate the value of hard work and definitely helped me in the tough selection process.”

And there’s Yasmin Copeland (formerly of Holy Family Catholic High School) and Charlie Fothergill (formerly of Brayton High School) who both studied the extended diploma in construction and the built environment - they secured two of the nine places available on the lend lease construction undergraduate scheme. This amazing opportunity will prepare them for work in the construction industry and give them chartered membership of their chosen professional institute.

Yasmin achieving triple distinction* grades and Charlie, who achieved D*D*D, are both delighted that sponsorship and employment with the multi-national property and infrastructure company will pay them a bursary whilst studying at Northumbria University, guaranteeing them jobs at the end of their studies.

Both students will study four year degrees; Yasmin in construction engineering management and Charlie in quantity surveying. Their undergraduate studies will be integrated with periods of salaried industrial experience with Lendlease during the student holidays and in year 3, an industrial placement year. Yasmin said: “My college course included modules on the different professional and technical construction trades, which really helped me choose which field of work I wanted to go into. Ultimately I would like to be a project manager and I am excited to start my undergraduate studies and to have a wealth of industrial opportunities with Lendlease.”

Clare Wareing, assistant principal for vocational studies, said: “As is the case every year, many of our Vocational students will be taking up places at universities, drama schools or conservatoires, once again demonstrating that Vocational courses provide excellent progression opportunities for those who wish to continue their studies or move directly into employment. Congratulations to all of our students who completed Vocational courses in the last academic year.”