August 14, 2025 - 846 views
Coleg Llandrillo’s Class of 2025 are celebrating outstanding A-level and vocational results.
In Level 3 vocational courses, 17% were awarded Distinctions (up 4% from the previous academic year) and an impressive 55% achieved Distinctions and Merits (up 11%).
17% of students achieved the coveted A* and A grades in their A-levels, with 72% of students attaining grades A* to C.
Learners have secured places at prestigious destinations, including Russell Group universities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and York, and will study a variety of subjects, including Business, Chemistry, Graphic Design, Law, Mechatronics, Medicine and Physics.
Among them is Gwern Doherty, who achieved A* in Further Maths, A in Physics and A in Maths, and will study Physics at The University of Manchester.
Gwern, who studied at the Rhos-on-Sea campus, said: “Thank you to all the staff. They were always happy to help me with my courses, university applications, time management and rugby development. I got the most I could out of my time here because of their efforts, so I can't thank them enough.”
Charlotte Smith achieved an A in Biology, A in Chemistry, B in Psychology and B in Religious Studies at Rhos, and has secured a place to study Medicine at the University of Liverpool.
She said: “The lecturers are all so supportive and willing to do extra, be it staying late after lessons or providing extra help when you have questions, which really makes you feel they want you to succeed.
“The college environment is also very welcoming, and staff and students are friendly and approachable for questions and concerns. It's a place I've been able to grow both academically and personally.”
Simon Cheung achieved three As in Biology, Medical Science and Psychology at the Rhyl campus, and is going on to study Biomedical Science in Hong Kong.
Rhyl Sixth student Sid Williams will be studying Psychology at the University of Liverpool, after achieving ABB in Sociology, Psychology and History. He said: “I’ve had an amazing time in college. I had wonderful teachers, and it was a great course. Thanks to everyone at college!”
Isaac Williams has been hired by Bryn Williams as a commis chef at his new restaurant at Theatr Clwyd, following the completion of his Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery. He will also return to the Rhos campus in September to begin a Foundation degree in Culinary Arts.
Isaac said: “I really enjoyed the course. The staff were really supportive and helpful, showing different techniques - everything just clicked and made sense. It’s given me all this practical experience, which is No1 in the culinary world.”
Ella Pearce-Whitby, who also studied at Rhos, achieved A* in Psychology, A in History and A in Religious Studies, and will study Psychology at the University of York.
She said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time studying A levels at college. My tutors have all been incredibly supportive, always willing to go above and beyond to help, and I've loved the independence that college offers.”
Olha Kulikova, who also studied at Rhos, achieved A* in Photography, A in Photography, and A in Art and Graphic Design, and will study Visual Communication at Falmouth University.
She said: “These past two years have been an amazing experience, and I have always felt encouraged and supported throughout my studies.
“My tutors guided me towards the right path and helped me make important decisions for my future. I will truly miss this time and the wonderful teachers who supported me.”
Lucie Connolly is going to study Fashion Marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University after achieving an A in Graphic Design, a B in English Language and a B in Media Studies.
She said college had given her “a sense of freedom that allowed me to study to my best ability”.
Mared Roberts has secured her spot to study Linguistics and the English Language at Bangor University, after achieving an A* in Sociology, an A* in Welsh Baccalaureate and a B in English Language.
Mared said: “The sense of community at the college is incredibly strong. I’m especially grateful to the amazing staff who supported me throughout my studies, fostering such a friendly, approachable environment.
“Coleg Llandrillo has also given me a space to express myself politically, which is something I’m deeply passionate about, especially during my Welsh Baccalaureate projects, which I thoroughly enjoyed.”
Sion Thomas achieved a merit in the first year of his Level 3 Media Production course. Through contacts he made in college, Sion recently landed a job on the crew of a huge HBO television production being filmed in North Wales.
“I wouldn’t be where I am now if I hadn’t come to college,” said Sion, who will for his second year in September. “I decided I wanted to do something I loved, but if I’d tried to go straight into the industry, I’d have had no idea where to look.”
Erin Price is currently working on yachts in the south of France, after gaining a distinction in her Level 3 Diploma in Professional Food and Beverage Service. Erin said, “Studying at college has helped me get to where I am now”.
Coleg Llandrillo is part of Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, the largest provider of Further Education across North Wales.
Across the Grŵp, 76% of students gained grades A* to C, with 24% attaining A* and A grades. In Level 3 vocational courses, 21% were awarded the highest Distinction or Distinction* grade (up 4% from last year), with 62% achieving a Merit to Distinction* (up 12%).
Paul Flanagan, Principal of Coleg Llandrillo, said: “Congratulations to all our learners - we’re so proud of you. This year has seen an increase in top A-level grades, rising success in vocational courses, and thousands of students achieving high-quality qualifications.”
He added: “Forty-two per cent of learners are progressing to higher education, well above the Welsh average, with more applying to the college to study for their degree, and many others moving into skilled jobs or apprenticeships. These results are thanks to our brilliant staff, and we’re here to support learners right through to the start of term with plenty of FE, HE, and apprenticeship places still available.”
If you’ve been inspired by the success of the learners and would like to start your story by starting a course at college, please contact the college to secure your place:
01492 546 666 for Coleg Llandrillo, 01341 422827 for Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor, and 01248 383348 for Coleg Menai.
