Although the summer holidays are in full swing, August is a month full of apprehension for many young people and their parents as they await the results.

And after two years of study and dedication, the hard work has paid off for many students throughout the district.

At Worksop's Post 16 Centre, director Gordon Whittleson said he was delighted with the year's results.

"We had a 95 per cent pass rate. Fifteen per cent of our students have got 100 per cent pass rate," he said.

"We're really pleased. It's our first set of results in this centre and it's gone really well – 80 per cent of students are going on to university."

"They have done fantastically well. They worked really hard this year. It's been great."

He said he also thought part of the success was attributed to the new centre, which opened at the start of the academic year.

"We have 20 per cent more students than last year. It's been a real success story," he said. "We are attracting a higher proportion of the students and we are expecting 15 per cent more next year."

Pupil Rebecca Sheridan, 18, who scooped three As in psychology, sociology and English, said she thought the new centre really gave students a boost.

"It's been a lot better here. There are more teachers to talk to and there's always someone around if you need help."

Rebecca, of Bracebridge Avenue, said she now plans to go to Leeds University to study psychology and hopes to become a criminal profiler.
"I was really pleased with my results. I wanted three As but I did not think I would get them," she said.

Leigh Wallace, 18, of Milton Drive, Kilton, also bagged three A grades in business studies, maths and further maths and a B in physics.

The science student, who is off to study mechanical engineering at Newcastle, said she was delighted with her grades and was looking forward to celebrating by holding a barbecue.

"It has been a stressful wait for the results, but worth it," she said. "It's been a good year and the Post 16 centre is a much better place to be – the staff have been very supportive."

And many pupils at Retford Post 16 Centre could be seen walking along West Carr Road clutching their exam results in delight.

A record 99 per cent of students passed their A Levels, compared with 97 per cent last year. And 38 per cent of those results were A to B grades.

Matt Lister, 18, achieved four A grades in Maths, Geography, Economics and Business and General Studies.

"I did not expect these results. It was hard work, but worth it," said Matt, of Ryecroft Street, Tickhill. "I will now go on to study accounting and finance at Leeds University. I can't wait."

Rob Cullen, 18, of Sturton Road, Wheatley, scooped three As in geography, art and general studies and a D grade in maths. He said that despite regular claims that A Levels are getting easier, students have to work hard to achieve good grades.

"I don't think it's true that we have got it easier. Our results are good but we have had to work very hard for them," he said.

Director of the Post 16 Centre, Rosalynde Grum, said she was 'over the moon' with the students' achievements.

"We are absolutely delighted. We have improved on last year and pupils have coped tremendously well with moving from their old schools to the new centre," said Mrs Grum.

At Worksop College, 38 per cent of all A Levels achieved by students were at grade A.

"Once again our pupils have demonstrated how much they can achieve when their own abilities are motivated by personal ambition and supported by skilled teachers," said headmaster Roy Collard. "Nearly all our students have obtained the grades they need to pursue their first choice course at university and all deserve our congratulations."

Of the 71 A Level pupils, 10 obtained three or more A grades, including Stephanie Clark and Rebecca Taylor, who have won places to read physics and philosophy and law at Oxford University.

Connexions Notts is on-hand to offer advice and guidance to pupils. Connexions personal advisers can help by discussing the different options available to young people in light of their exam results.

They can also help with advice on university options, clearing, job vacancies, college places, training, apprenticeships, grants and benefits.

"When faced with the reality of your exam results, please don't panic," said Connexions personal adviser Rebecca Smith. "Whatever grades you've got, whether better or worse than expected, you still have a wide choice of options, and there is no reason why you can't still go on to pursue your chosen career."

Those who want to discuss their options after exam results can call their local Connexions centres on 01777 710701 (Retford) and on 01909 473165 (Worksop).

Or visit www.sortitonline.com or www.connexions-direct.com for more tips and advice.