Thurrock students celebrate A-Level results (From Thurrock Gazette)

Thurrock students celebrate A-Level results

1:19pm Thursday 16th August 2012 in News

STUDENTS across Thurrock have been picking up A-Level results this morning, crowning two years of hard work.

For thousands of the borough's youngsters, most at Palmers College, a nerve-wracking period lasting since their final exams in June ended as they opened envelopes detailing their success.

Palmers College, the largest sixth form centre in Thurrock, enjoyed a small but significant improvement on last year's results, with 98 per cent of final year A-Level students passing their exams, up on 97 per cent last year.

Last year, 19 subjects achieved a 100 per cent pass rate, whereas this year, 25 subjects at the Grays-based college had every single student pass their exams.

There was relief and elation for Grays-girl Lize Stam, 18, who achieved the grades required for her to take up a place at Cambridge University to study Natural Sciences.

But this wave of A-Level students is also the first that will have to stump up £9,000 per year in University fees.

For 18-year-old James Lepine from Ockendon, who achieved excellent grades in his exams, the high cost is too off-putting.

He has elected to seek full-time work.

Mark Vinall, the Principal at Palmers College, said: "We've done excellently this year.

"I'm delighted for all of our students and staff, who are enjoying the results of hard work and effort.

"Sixth form college is a wonderful place to be between school and university and prepares students for the next step in their life journey.

"Research shows that students going to university will increase their earning potential by 25 per cent so it's still an excellent option, despite the rise in fees.

"Our job though, is to enable students to access the best opportunities, what ever they may be."