Hull’s Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) has recorded another set of outstanding A-level and technical results, with half of all student grades this year being A or A*.
Students at the employer-led school have once again delivered stellar grades, while Ron Dearing UTC has also announced it is gearing up to open a brand new Sixth Form Centre to provide even more exceptional opportunities to its young people.
This year’s cohort of 209 students has risen to new highs, underlining Ron Dearing UTC’s ever-growing reputation for excellence and achievement.
Highlights of this year’s A-level and Level 3 technical results include:
- 50% of all grades A-A* (up 6% on last year)
- 93% of all grades A-C* (maintaining last year’s exceptional performance)
- Average A-level grade: B
- Average Applied General grade: Distinction+
- Average Tech Level grade: Distinction*
Ron Dearing UTC Principal Sarah Pashley said: “We’re absolutely delighted with these results. Continuing to improve on exceptionally high standards was always going to be a challenge, but our students, staff and wider school community have once again risen to the occasion and delivered outstanding outcomes.
“These achievements reflect the quality of teaching and learning at Ron Dearing UTC, the ambition of our students, and the strength of our employer-engaged curriculum. They demonstrate what’s possible when young people are given the knowledge, skills and opportunities to excel.
“Congratulations to our Year 13 students – they have worked incredibly hard, embraced every opportunity and shown remarkable resilience throughout their time with us.
“We’re also thrilled that we remain on track for 100% of our students to progress to positive destinations, whether that is university, an apprenticeship or employment.
“At a time when too many young people nationally are leaving education without a clear next step, this is a significant achievement and highlights our commitment to ensuring every student is equipped for success in their future career and life.”
Luke Marshall has secured a place at Oxford University to study Biochemistry after achieving the best ever A-level results from a Ron Dearing UTC student.
Luke secured A* grades in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics and said: “I’m delighted with my results. I knew I had put a lot of time and effort into my revision and was very well prepared, thanks to my amazing teachers, but I didn’t expect to get all A*s!
“The best thing about Ron Dearing is definitely the teachers. They really encourage you to get the very best out of your education, motivating you to make the most of independent study, tailoring teaching to support your weaker areas and always being really encouraging.”
Ruby Rowley and Cameron Smith have become the first students from Ron Dearing UTC to go on to university to study medicine, with Ruby securing two As and an A* and progressing to Lincoln Medical School, while Cameron also gained two As and an A* and a place at Hull York Medical School.
The school’s talented art students have also excelled in their studies, with Zak Wilkinson achieving three A* grades, and Amelia Prasjnar achieving two A*s and an A. Both are staying at Ron Dearing to study the Art and Design Foundation Course, with the goal of moving on to university next year.
Amelia said: “Joining Ron Dearing was the best decision I’ve ever made. The teachers are so kind and have helped me so much. I want to stay here for as long as possible, and that’s why I’ve chosen to join the Foundation Course!”
Approximately 50% of this year’s cohort are heading to university, while 40% are preparing to begin apprenticeships and 10% are expected to step straight into employment.
Those pursuing apprenticeships are joining leading companies in industries such as healthcare, aerospace and software development, while those pursuing further education at university, including at prestigious Russell Group institutions, are studying a diverse array of subjects, including aeronautics, robotics, medicine, fine art and illustration.
The success comes at an exciting time for the school, which is preparing to open a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre in January. Located just five minutes’ walk from the main site, it will provide an outstanding environment for post-16 learners.
Richard Martin, Chair of the Governing Board at Ron Dearing UTC and Non-Executive Director at Major Partner Arco, said: “On behalf of the school, I’d like to offer heartfelt thanks to our exceptional staff, our fantastic Employer Partners and Educational Partner, the University of Hull, our highly-effective Governing Board, and our committed and supportive parents and carers. They have all played an invaluable role in supporting our students’ success.
“The forthcoming opening of our new Sixth Form Centre will be another major milestone for the school and once more demonstrates our commitment to providing the very best learning environment and opportunities for young people across the region.”
Ron Dearing UTC caters for students aged 14 to 19, offering a unique employer-led model of education.
The school now has more than 60 Employer Partners who work alongside the school’s experienced teaching staff to equip students with the skills, qualifications and maturity required by leading businesses and vital to supporting the growth of the region’s economy.
The UTC’s Founding Partners are the University of Hull and leading local employers KCOM, Reckitt, Siemens Gamesa, Smith+Nephew and Spencer Group. The school is also supported by Hull City Council alongside a host of other Major Partners and Partners.
- Students who would like to join Ron Dearing UTC in Year 10 or Year 12 in September 2027 are invited to attend one of three planned Open Events on October 1, November 12, and January 7. For more information, and to book a place, visit rondearingutc.com/openevents