Record-Breaking Results for NSCG’s Class of 2026

Celebration is underway at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) following a record-breaking year of A Level, T Level and vocational results for the 'Class of 2026'. Learners across all campuses are today celebrating top-grade achievements that pave the way for exciting future destinations. 

Reinforcing NSCG’s status as Staffordshire’s leading college, today’s results showcase outstanding individual and collective performance. From securing places at Oxbridge and Russell Group universities to launching high-level apprenticeships, NSCG students continue to lead the way. 

Highlights include:

• A Level: 1,435 entries recorded an overall pass rate of 99.2%, with 62.5% of students earning top grades of A*-B (58% in 2025) and 28.4% achieving A*-A (24% in 2025). Overall, 85.6% of entries achieved A*-C grades (85.3% in 2025). 
• A+ Programme* – 78.4% grades Distinction or above 
• A Level subjects with a 100% pass rate include: Animation, Art & Design, Business Studies, Computing, Economics, English Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, Film Studies, Graphic Design, Geography, History, Law, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religion & Ethics, Photography, Physics and Politics 
• T Level Pathways: a 99% pass rate, with 30% of learners achieving Distinction grades or higher and 83.7% of learners achieving Merit grades or higher (73% in 2025). Particularly strong subjects include Digital Production Design & Development, where 66.7% of students achieved Distinction grade or above, Education and Childcare where 59% of students achieved Distinction grade or above and Legal Services, where 44% of students achieved Distinction grade or above.
• Vocational Qualifications (BTEC): 1203 entries achieved a 99% pass rate, with 58.6% securing high Triple Distinction grades (56.2% in 2025) and 82.3% achieving DMM or higher (80.2% in 2025). 

Vocational Disciplines Securing High Grade Success (% of learners achieving Triple Distinction** or above):

• Fashion (Stafford): 94.7%
• Music Technology (Stafford): 91% 
• Applied Science: 88.2% Newcastle / 72.7% Stafford 
• Travel & Tourism (Stafford): 84% 
• Sport & Exercise Science (Newcastle): 74.5% 
• Games Design: 72.2% Newcastle / 69.2% Stafford
• Media Production (Stafford): 71.1% 
• Photography (Newcastle): 69% 
• Graphic Design (Newcastle): 68.8% 
• Travel & Tourism (Newcastle): 68.5% 

* BTEC vocational subjects studied alongside A Levels (one A Level equivalent).

**Triple Distinction status carries the equivalent weight of AAA at A Level.

Commenting on the results, Craig Hodgson, Principal and Chief Executive of NSCG said: "Results day is always a moment of incredible pride and the Class of 2026 has set a phenomenal standard. Seeing our students' relentless effort, drive and passion pay off today is hugely inspiring. Their success opens doors to top-tier universities, prestigious apprenticeships and exciting careers, and we couldn't be prouder of their achievements.

“Behind every great student is an extraordinary team, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our outstanding teaching and support staff.  Their guidance and commitment remain the foundation of our success. As we celebrate today's triumphs, we also look forward to welcoming our new intake this September to begin their own journey with us.”

NSCG students are set to make their mark at world-class institutions nationwide. Destinations for the Class of 2026 include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, King’s College London, University of Birmingham, University of Manchester, University of Nottingham, University of Liverpool, Durham University, Falmouth University, Loughborough University and Edinburgh University, as well as prestigious apprenticeships with the likes of BAE Systems, Bentley Motors, Rolls Royce and Capula.