Students talk career options after A-level success

Instead, their grades were allocated by their teachers based on their previous achievements and coursework.

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This summer, they were able to take their A-level and BTEC exams – and feel they have finally proven themselves in the traditional way.

Ben Roberts picked up three A grades and is heading to University Campus of Football Business in Wembley to study multimedia sports journalism.

He said: “I am very happy with my results; they are better than expected. The hard work has paid off and I have exceeded my expectations.

Ben Roberts. Picture: Epping St John’s Church of England Sixth Form

“I have always wanted to be a sports journalist, so I am happy I can finally go to university to do that. I can’t believe it.

“Year 12 was the toughest, with online school for a couple of months.

“Throughout Year 13, the whole sixth form team has been great, supporting and helping us with everything.”

George Sack achieved two A* grades and an A grade and is now preparing to move to Bournemouth to start a banking apprenticeship with JP Morgan.

He said: “I am very happy, especially considering what we have been through and that we have never sat exams before.

George Sack. Picture: Epping St John’s Church of England Sixth Form

“Having been through so much, it has made us really resilient as a year group. When it came to sitting the exams, it was not as daunting as it could have been, as a result.

Ruby Turnham is heading for a career in midwifery after picking up an A*, two A grades and a B.

She said: “I was so pleased to collect my results; I was so, so shocked.

Ruby Turnham. Picture: Epping St John’s Church of England Sixth Form

“The teachers at our sixth form are so supportive; you could not feel more supported. It is such a warm, caring sixth form. The teachers really know each individual student.

“It was very comforting that come results day that either way u would be supported and helped.”