Collyer's

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COLLYER'S STUDENTS HIT THE MARK!
RECORD 61% ACHIEVE A*-B AT A-LEVEL

Students at Collyer’s, one of the leading sixth form colleges in the country, have achieved a record 61% high grades (A*-B) at A-Level. Particularly strong individual A*-B subject results include Further Maths (91%), French (89%), Film (89%), German (86%), 3D Design (85%); Photography (84%), Computer Science (84%), Law (75%), Psychology (73%); Contemporary Fine Art (73%), Spanish (71%), History (70%), Physics (68%), Maths, Chemistry and Geology (all 64%). The overall A-level pass rate is 99%.

BTec Health and Social Care (Double) enjoyed a 100% D*-M high grade profile, with 20% of learners achieving Distinction*; Btec Double Sport, Travel and Tourism, and T-Level Education and Early Years also had 100% high grades, while BTec IT posted 62% high grades.

Collyer’s Principal Dan Lodge said: “This cohort have been richly rewarded for their hard work with a college A-level record of 61% A*-B and 76% high grade performance across our BTec provision.

“The class of 2026 are a credit to the college and the Collyer’s community could not be prouder of them.”

Chair of Collyer's Local Governing Body, Paul Mittendorfer, added: “Collyer's goes from strength to strength. Massive thanks to the excellent staff at Collyer’s for guiding and supporting our students so professionally.

“Congratulations and the best of luck to all our departing students as they embark on their exciting journeys!”

Just some of the noteworthy individual successes included: Emily Hall who previously attended The Burgess School for Girls, who now heads to the University of Bath to study Aerospace Engineering, former Tanbridge House pupil David Schofield, will study Environmental Science at UEA, ex Forest pupil Will Jackson will study Maths at the University of Oxford, while Marcus Kwok, having joined Collyer’s from Tanbridge House, will now attend UCL to study Chemistry with Mathematics. Former Bohunt Horsham student Ella Tyler heads to Cambridge to study Psychological and Behavioural Sciences, ex-Warden Park pupil Alexis Park Griffiths is off to the University of Bath to read Business Management and Marketing, and Aisa Niang, who joined Collyer's from the Gatwick School, will study a Bachelor's in Pastry Arts at École Ducasse in France. Eric Trinidad, who joined Collyer's from The Forest School will focus on the field of Geography at the University of Sheffield.

Victoria Barnes was awarded a triple Distinction* in BTec Art and Design and now heads to the University of Greenwich to study Graphic and Digital Design. She said: "I would like to thank my mum and sisters for their support and especially thank our family friend Jonathan for giving me his old computer, as without such I would not have been able to complete my course to such a high standard."

Emily Hall, who achieved A*s in Computer Science, Extended Project, Further Maths, Maths, and Physics, said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Collyer’s and many thanks to all of my teachers the past two years.”

Will Jackson added: “Collyer’s has been a great experience and I’m very grateful to all of my teachers for the support and encouragement they’ve given me over the past two years.”

Alexis Park Griffiths was thrilled: "Thank you to my family for supporting me during A levels and my teachers for always pushing me!"

David Schofield was delighted: “I am really grateful to all the family, friends and teachers who made the last two years so wonderful - at the end of the day it is our values and friendships that are more important than our grades! Many thanks for a brilliant time at Collyer's."

Ella Tyler said: "I am very thankful for all the teachers who have helped me throughout the two years to achieve these grades!"

Chelsea Omeje, who achieved straight Distinction* grades across Single Applied Science and Double Health and Social Care, is now heading to the University of Manchester to study Adult Nursing. She said: "I’m proud of how far I’ve come, grateful for the support and opportunities I’ve received at Collyer's, and even more excited for everything that lies ahead."

Marco Fanari, who achieved a Distinction* in BTec Engineering and A*s in Physics, Maths and Further Maths, will move on to study Aeronautics and Astronautics at the University of Southampton. Grace Shepherd also achieved Distinction* across her subjects, in Music Practitioners and Double Health and Social Care, and will now head to Buckinghamshire New University to study Music Production and Songwriting. She said: "I have really enjoyed my time at Collyer's and feel well prepared for my next steps."

Deputy Principal Steve Martell said: “We are delighted with the college’s particularly strong Level 3 vocational and T-Level success this year. With a 99.9% pass rate, our bright, resilient, hard-working students have performed wonderfully, yet again. They are an absolute credit to Collyer’s and their amazing teachers, tutors and support staff!”

Dan Lodge added: “We are the number one choice for A levels in West Sussex and look forward to welcoming a record number of new students this autumn.”

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE!
SOUTH LODGE HOST COLLYER’S CHALLENGE OF MANAGEMENT 2026
Collyer’s students got a taste of the real world of business at the Challenge of Management 2026, run by the college at the 5-star South Lodge Hotel.

The event enabled teams of ten students, each led by a top representative from employers and the regional business community, to compete throughout the day in a number of business games, team building and leadership exercises.

Expert business representatives, leading practitioners, and guest speakers supporting the event included: Harry Adams (Achieving for Children), Toby Cotton (Kreston Reeves), Lauren Early (Quality Care Group), Maisie Edwards (who becomes a Radiographer in September, having just graduated from the University of Portsmouth), Kerry George (THALES), Amy Green (Specialist Risk Group and former President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Sussex); Mike Humphries (Collyer's Young Enterprise), Theo Martin (recent Falmouth University graduate), Clo Mehu (South Lodge, an Exclusive Hotel), Lizzy Modi (Discover Beyond), Maisie Poland (Schroders), Darren Pollard (Quality Care Group), Sanya Pramod (THALES), Kim Senior (Assurity Consulting), Sam Seeley (joining THALES in September), Lauchlan Slaughter (GlaxoSmithKline), and Smita Warren (Aviva) .

The popular and successful event is a key part of the college’s progression initiative and gave students a taste of the real world of management and employability skills.

Collyer’s Director of Progression, Rebecca Adams, who co-ordinated the event, said: “These leading professionals are all incredible supporters of Collyer’s and have given so much time, creativity, and energy to help the next generation. Our students found them engaging and truly inspiring!"

Collyer’s Deputy Principal Steve Martell, who hosted the event, said: “Enormous thanks to our hosts and sponsors South Lodge Hotel, the Insurance Institute of Sussex, and Mike Humphries. They have been, and continue to be, incredibly supportive of Collyer's.”

Throughout the day, attention was drawn to the learning opportunities that the tasks provided and Q&As about the routes available after college including insights into several pathways including apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships and degrees.

Mr Martell interviewed inspirational special guests including Amy Green, former Collyer’s students Harry Adams, Maisie Edwards, Kerry George, Sanya Pramod, and Sam Seeley. Talented musician Theo Martin also gave a fascinating insight into the creative industries, his undergraduate studies at Falmouth University and managing work experience in London. Smita Warren spoke about the use of AI in the job application process.

In addition to benefiting from this practical and personal advice, student teams enjoyed an interactive ice-breaker, and then competed in a sculpture and presentation competition, a lost at sea scenario, and the ever-popular production challenge. Using real life examples and techniques, teams discussed, planned and presented their ideas, to win prizes throughout the event.

Andrea John, Collyer’s Vice Principal (Pastoral) was impressed: “An inspiring day was had by all! This is a complex operation with many moving parts, so colossal thanks to Rebecca Adams and the Collyer’s team of Georgia Campbellwood, Julie Crysell, Ian McAlister, Parisa Murray, Roger Raymond, and Claire Savage. Their support was absolutely brilliant throughout the months of planning and on the big day itself.”

Collyer’s Ian McAlister, who hosted the sculpture and presentation challenge, added: “I thoroughly enjoyed the crackling atmosphere and was in awe of the sheer talent within the room!”

Photos courtesy of Ian McAlister

COLLYER’S WELCOMES NEW STUDENTS

Collyer’s recently welcomed students to the college for a taster day, ready for a start in September 2026. Students visited the college from across the region to meet their new teachers and tutors, enjoy taster lessons in their chosen subjects and learn about Collyer’s “360 Degrees” enrichment offer.

Enrichment Fair organiser John Burrough said: “Our current students and staff ran stands including the debating society, sport academy teams, chess, robotics, table tennis and dance society. These and a multitude of other activities will form a vital part of the 360 Degrees enrichment programme which all students take part in from September!”

Helen Lobb, Collyer’s Director of Admissions, said: “The Welcome Day gives students a chance to cement their subject choices, and gives us a chance to warmly welcome them to the Collyer’s community.

"It is important that the new cohort have a clear idea of what college life will be like for them in September. ”

On arrival at the college, the new students were greeted by some of the Collyer’s Ambassadors, affectionately known as the “Dream Team”, who answered questions and guided them through their first day at the Ofsted Outstanding Sixth Form College. Since last year’s Welcome Day, the Ambassadors have been touring the region, presenting at schools’ post 16 options evenings and assemblies.

Deputy Principal Steve Martell said: “The Ambassadorial team are outstanding role-models and have been brilliant to work with!

"Huge thanks to Helen and all involved in making this wonderful day possible for our new students, who we very much look forward to welcoming at the start of the autumn term."

STUDENTS COOK UP WAYS TO LEARN SPANISH!

TASTE OF SPANISH CULTURE "DELICIOUS"

A level Spanish students at Collyer’s recently swapped their laptops, textbooks, and pens for a frying pan and potato peeler!

Spanish teacher Milagros Herguedas explained: “Learning Spanish or any foreign language is not only about the language, but learning about the culture and traditions, so the students had to follow recipes in Spanish and create delicious types of potato tortilla or omelette."

In small groups, the students peeled, chopped, fried, whisked and flipped the omelette to cook it evenly on both sides.

Vice Principal (Curriculum) Rob Hussey said: “What a creative way to get a delicious taste of Spanish culture!”

Milagros was delighted with the results: “The teams produced delicious omelettes, fit to grace any Spanish dinner table! It was a fun part of the lesson, and I was delighted with how the students really threw themselves into this cultural experience."

Deputy Principal Steve Martell said: “Adding a practical cooking lesson into the mix was a great way to end the summer term. Huge thanks to Milagros for making this possible.”

OLE! TOP DANCER KEEPS STUDENTS ON THEIR TOES!
Collyer’s students recently learnt to dance Flamenco under the tuition of Brighton based leading professional dancer and teacher, Ana Dueñas.

Milagros Herguedas, who is Subject Leader for Spanish at Collyer’s, was delighted: “Music and dance heritage is a key part of the Spanish A level course at Collyer’s. Ana introduced the art of flamenco explaining about the heavy influence of the Spanish gipsy community and its humble origin, when there were no instruments available. Students were taught how to create a simple piece clapping their hands and stomping their feet.

"The group learnt some basic steps, coordinating feet and arms that led to a small but well accomplished choreography. I was incredibly impressed by our students’ focus and willingness to try a new experience."

Amongst the many dance styles, Flamenco is often the one most associated with Spanish culture and it is hoped this experience will make exploring the cultural heritage topic more memorable.

Vice Principal (Pastoral) Andrea John was delighted: “We are incredibly grateful to Milagros for staging the session and huge thanks also to Ana Dueñas for coming in and sharing her dancing expertise. Events like these are what make the educational journey at Collyer’s so special.”

Milagros added: “Ana is a lavishly gifted dancer, whose sessions have given the students a wonderful insight into Spanish culture. She is always so generous with her time and energy, which is appreciated by all.”
Fittingly, the session finished with a grand “OLÉ!”

VOLCANO LECTURE "EXPLOSIVE"

Collyer's A-level Geology students recently visited the Geology Department at the University of London, Royal Holloway. Invited by Dr Nic Scarselli, the group heard an introductory talk about Earth Science and Volcanoes by Dr Jonathan Paul.

Dr Ian Carr, Collyer’s Head of Geology and Assistant Director of the Science Faculty, said: "The students were then shown an explosive demonstration, conducted by Dr Paul and Dr Martin King using a barrel of water filled with ball pit balls, foam and four rubber ducks to model an explosive eruption when liquid nitrogen was added!

"The students placed pegs in the ground where they thought the ducks would land and Collyer’s student Hannah Murphy’s won the prize!"

Following that, the students visited the computer suite and used 3D seismic data to examine the carbon capture and storage facility of Sleipner in the North Sea. Dr Queenie Chan then gave an inspiring talk about meteorites, and the students were able to handle rare meteorite specimens.

The Geology department kindly provided pizza for lunch, and then gave a tour of the University, including the beautiful Founders Building, before visiting an exhibition on microplastic pollution created by Dr Nathalie Grassineau in the Library.

Dr Carr added: "Huge thanks to our wonderful hosts at the University of London, Royal Holloway. The Geology department certainly put on an explosive day for our students!"

BIOLOGY STUDENTS HAVE A FIELD DAY!
BRITISH WILDLIFE CENTRE DAYS "FANTASTIC"
Collyers first year Biology students have enjoyed a fantastic couple of days on their field trip to the British Wildlife Centre.
Caroline Birch, Joint-Head of Biology, explained: "The group spent time learning about native wildlife and their conservation, as well as completing fieldwork practicals. They braved Amber heat warnings with the help of hats, umbrellas and plenty of water!"
Students collected data comparing plant species diversity in woodland vs meadow habitats, which will contribute to their A level Practical Endorsement. They also enjoyed meeting some of the wildlife very up close and personal, including a hedgehog, owls and some very curious red squirrels!
Claire Pickens, Joint-Head of Biology, added: "The department was really proud of how admirably the students coped with the rather challenging conditions, allowing them to gain fantastic experience linking their classroom learning to real-life conservation."

CREATIVE FUTURES IN THE FRAME
STUDENTS ENJOY PORTSMOUTH ARTS TASTER DAY
A Level and BTEC Art, Photography, Graphics and Textiles students from Collyer’s were given an inspiring insight into creative higher education when they recently attended the Architecture, Art and Design Taster Day at the University of Portsmouth.
The event offered students the opportunity to explore a range of creative subjects, including Architecture, Fashion, Graphic Design, Illustration and Photography, while experiencing university-style teaching and specialist facilities first-hand.
Throughout the day, students took part in hands-on workshops designed to help them develop ideas, experiment with practical processes and gain a clearer understanding of what it might be like to study a creative subject at degree level. The programme also included guided tours and opportunities to learn more about the creative courses available at the University of Portsmouth.
Sharon Porter, Head of BTEC Art & Design said “It was a great day out, exploring the campus and meeting the wonderful staff. We all enjoyed the workshops and seeing the innovative work on display.”
The visit was particularly valuable for students considering their next steps after college, giving them the chance to compare subject pathways, ask questions and reflect on how their interests could develop into future study or careers within the creative industries.
Fine Art student Devmi said: “It was helpful to have an insight into university life.” Fellow Fine Art student Holly, added: “I took part in the architecture and fashion workshops. It was a great experience, and I now know what it would be like to study a creative subject at uni. The fashion lecturer was so friendly!”
BTEC Art and Design students also had an inspiring day. Charlotte said: "The graduate shows really helped me visualise the different creative pathways”. While Charlie added: “I loved the day! It was an eyeopener of what universities have to offer. I found it so useful!”
Students returned to college with new ideas, greater confidence and a broader awareness of the opportunities available within Architecture, Art and Design. For many, the day provided an exciting glimpse into university life and the creative possibilities that could shape their futures.
Ian McAlister Director of Progression at Collyer’s said “The Portsmouth Arts Taster Day was a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience creative subjects in a university setting and to begin thinking seriously about their next steps. It was wonderful to see them engaging so positively with the workshops, asking thoughtful questions and gaining confidence in their ideas.
"Experiences like this are invaluable in helping students make informed decisions about their future pathways in the creative industries.”
Assistant Director of Faculty for the Arts, Laura Andrews, added: “We are very grateful to the University of Portsmouth for hosting such a valuable and inspiring day. The staff made our students feel extremely welcome and provided them with a real insight into the possibilities open to them within the creative industries.”

CREATIVE FOCUS AT READING UNIVERSITY
A group of 35 Film and Media students from Collyer’s recently enjoyed an inspiring and immersive visit to the University of Reading, gaining valuable insight into both university life and the creative industries.
The trip took place at the university’s scenic Whiteknights Campus, where students were given a guided tour of the facilities and had the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of campus life. Student ambassadors led engaging talks, offering a first-hand perspective on studying at university, from course structures to social opportunities.
A highlight of the visit was an intensive workshop delivered by the Film, Theatre and Television (FTT) department. Led by the Head of School alongside a specialist film acting lecturer, the session provided students with a challenging and highly practical creative experience. Students were tasked with devising short performances based on ambiguous lines of script, encouraging them to develop characters, experiment with blocking, and make decisions about staging and direction. The workshop pushed students to think collaboratively and creatively, mirroring the kind of work expected in higher education.
The Collyer's students loved the experience. Georgia Parker said: “I really enjoyed the Reading Uni trip Collyer’s provided as it really helped further my understanding of how university will be for media students, while also showcasing the range of professional facilities they offered through interactive workshops and tours.”
Harry Summerhayes-Cooper added: “Having the opportunity to visit the renowned Reading University was beneficial and has helped inform me about courses, requirements and uni-life; the workshop and seeing campus was the highlight of the trip.”
Lizzie Tyler-Moore reflected on the wider impact of the experience: “I am very grateful that Collyer’s provides us with these immersive opportunities, that allow us to experience what we might want to pursue in the future. It makes decision making easier when it comes to applying for universities.”
Head of Film Studies at Collyer’s, Stuart Andrews, emphasised the importance of such visits: “Trips like this are invaluable in helping students bridge the gap between college and university. The combination of professional facilities, expert-led workshops and honest student insight gives our learners the confidence and clarity they need when considering their next steps in the creative industries.”
Collyer's Deputy Principal Steve Martell said: "Huge thanks to the University of Reading for staging this wonderful experience, and to Stuart and the Collyer's team for organising the trip."