DARWEN Enterprise Studio principal Colin Grand says its sixth-Form students are celebrating great A-level results which help then look forward to fantastic career and university options.

He said: “We have a mix of students going to university, with 50 per cent receiving unconditional offers, but we also have a number of students who have already gone straight into careers this year. It feels important this year that students can have the confidence that their hard work has paid off. There has been a lot of disruption in their final year and it is great to see our students now excited about starting the next stage of their career or education.”

Connor Thomson has studied at the Studio since he was 13 and has specialised in Photography, TV & Film Production and Graphic Design.

Connor received an unconditional offer from Leeds Arts University following a strong set of results that includes an A in Photography. Connor said: “I was so nervous about my results this year as things have been so different with online lectures and not working in the building. I have loved my time at the Studio and I’m really pleased with my outcomes, especially my A in Photography. I’m off to Leeds Arts University and can’t wait to start.”

Ebany Leek has followed a care sector pathway and has yesterday collected her results in Health and Social Care and Child Development, said: “I’ve already started my career in the care sector at Premier Care Home, Darwen. I’m loving the job and I’m now putting in place all I have learned at the Studio.”

Rachel Guest has achieved a great set of results with Distinction* in TV & Film, B in Graphic Art and A in Photography. She has also achieved a scholarship from the National Youth Film Association and is already a recognised award-winning film maker.

Rachel said: “I can’t thank the Studio enough for the opportunities they have given me. I am going on to study Film Making at Edge Hill University.”

Amber Rothwell is heading to Uclan to study Game Design and has been offered a scholarship based on her portfolio of skills.

Amber said: “I’m so pleased with my Distinction in TV and Film.

"It has been a difficult year with not being able to work in the building, and I feel that we did not get closure in being able to complete our time at sixth form properly.

"I really do not want to leave, however I’m delighted I can now accept my place at university and thank everyone for the support the Studio has given me.”

Mr Grand added: “The Studio specialises in Creative, Digital and Care sector courses that support the Northern Powerhouse movement, giving students a ‘competitive advantage’ in their career choices.

"I would like to congratulate all of our Year 13 students on their amazing levels of professionalism and resilience this year. They have been a credit and deserve all they have achieved.”