Launceston Sixth Students Celebrate Strong A Level Results

Launceston College students were all smiles this morning, Thursday 14th August, as they collected their A Level results. The college, part of Athena Learning Trust, marked the first year under its refreshed sixth form identity, Launceston Sixth, with a set of standout achievements and ambitious next steps.

A New Era for Launceston Sixth

This year saw the launch of Launceston Sixth, introduced under the slogan Exceptional Teaching, Exceptional Experience. The changes reflect improvements in academic and pastoral support for students in Years 12 and 13.

Sixth formers now benefit from dedicated study spaces, a supportive team of staff, and a curriculum designed to prepare them for life beyond school. Many will move on to top universities and competitive apprenticeships, reflecting the sixth form’s focus on high expectations and strong outcomes.

Top Achievers and Destinations

Among the many success stories celebrated today were:

• Charlotte Lancaster – Biology A*, Chemistry A*, French A*, Maths A* – Leeds University, BioChemistry

• Seth Taopo – Biology A*, Chemistry A, Psychology A – Brighton University, Medicine

• Phoebe Symmons – Biology A*, Chemistry A, Maths A* – Plymouth University, Medicine

• Megan Hensby – Biology A*, Chemistry A, Psychology A* – Plymouth University, Psychology with Human Biology

• Isabella Goodman – Biology A, Geography A, Maths A – Hartpury University, Agriculture

• Finlay Worth – EPQ B, Further Maths A, Maths A*, Physics A – Exeter University, Mechanical Engineering

• Reuben Wendon – EPQ A, History A, Maths A, Physics A – Bristol University, Physics and Philosophy

Beyond the Classroom

This academic year has also been packed with achievements and experiences beyond the exam hall.

Launceston College hosted its annual awards evening, celebrating student success across all year groups, with special guest Jonathan Smith, an underwater natural history filmmaker.

For career development, Year 10 and 12 students took part in a Work Experience Programme, securing placements with organisations including the Army, Royal Navy, Police, Derriford Hospital, Cornwall FA, Plymouth Argyle FC, Hitech GP, MBDA, SaxaVord Space Port, and York City Football Club.

Students also enjoyed a residential trip to Boswinger YHA, which included a visit to Caerhays Castle and a day at the beach. Staff praised their politeness and respect throughout the trip.

Principal’s Pride

Principal Matthew Thompson said:
“I’m incredibly proud of our students and the fantastic results they’ve achieved this year. Their hard work, resilience, and determination have paid off, and it’s been a joy to see so many of them secure places at top universities, apprenticeships and careers. This year also marks an exciting new chapter with the launch of Launceston Sixth, and these record results are a powerful reflection of the exceptional teaching and support our sixth form offers.”

Ofsted Recognition

Launceston College holds a Good Ofsted rating across all areas, including Quality of education, Behaviour and attitudes, Personal development, Leadership and management, and Sixth form provision. Inspectors noted that all pupils, including those with SEND, follow a broad and ambitious curriculum, with knowledge taught in a logical order and built upon effectively.

They also praised the suitability of sixth form qualifications for students’ aspirations, the demanding nature of the work, and the tailored curriculum for pupils in the specially resourced provision.