** STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL 8AM 13th AUGUST 2026**
Students achieved outstanding results across a wide range of technical, vocational, and academic programmes, with many now progressing to university, apprenticeships, or full employment.
NCD celebrates another excellent year of A-Level and Level 3 results. An impressive 100% of A-Level students achieved a pass in their qualifications, with 32% securing higher grades with grades of A* and A, more than doubling since last year, demonstrating the breadth and strength of provision across the college.
The college also continues to lead the way in technical education, with another exceptional year of T-Level results, celebrating its highest pass rate with 98% of students successfully passing their T-level qualification. Students achieved 100% pass rates in nine out of 11 T-Level subjects, with 71% of successful students achieving the highest grades of Merit and Distinction, highlighting the quality of teaching and the commitment shown by students throughout their studies.
Early Years and Care students achieved 100% high grades for the fourth year in a row for the Early Years Educator specialism and Assisting Teaching Specialism sustained its 100% record for high grades with all students in its second cohort securing the grades of Merit or Distinction and ten of the 12 students on the Early Years Educator programme achieved a Distinction too.
T-Level Health, Supporting the Mental Health Team students achieved a 100% Merit or Distinction profile in its first cohort, while students studying Digital Production, Design and Development also maintained their profile of 100% of students achieving grades of Merit or Distinction for the second consecutive year. Many students have already secured places on higher apprenticeships, employment with regional employers or progression to degree-level study at New College Durham University Centre and universities including Northumbria, Newcastle, Warwick, Staffordshire, and Buckinghamshire.
Developed in partnership with employers, T-Levels combine classroom learning with substantial industry placements, equipping students with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed for careers in high-demand sectors such as construction, engineering, digital technologies, health, and science.
Students studying BTEC and other Level 3 vocational qualifications also celebrated outstanding achievements, with many progressing directly into employment, higher apprenticeships, and higher education.
These results reinforce NCD's reputation as one of the North East's leading providers of academic and technical education, helping learners develop the skills, confidence and qualifications required by employers and universities alike.
Alison Maynard, Deputy Principal, Curriculum, New College Durham, said: "Results Day is one of the most rewarding moments in the academic year, and I would like to congratulate every one of our students on what they have achieved. Behind every result is months of hard work, determination and resilience, supported by dedicated teachers, support staff, parents, carers, and employers.
"We are incredibly proud of our students and everything they have accomplished. Whether they are progressing to university, an apprenticeship, employment or continuing their studies with us, they have all built strong foundations for exciting futures.
"I would also like to thank our exceptional staff, whose passion, expertise and dedication helps our students achieve their ambitions year after year.
"For any student who may not have received the results they were hoping for today, it is important to remember that this is not the end of the journey. Please come and speak to us before making any decisions. Our experienced advisers are available to talk through your options and help you find the right pathway to achieve your goals. There are always opportunities available, and we are here to support you every step of the way."
Throughout the day, staff across the college are on hand to offer guidance and advice to students exploring their next steps, including university applications, Clearing opportunities, apprenticeships, further study, and alternative progression routes.
New College Durham is continuing to welcome applications for a comprehensive range of courses starting this September, with expert careers advisers available to support prospective students in finding the right programme for their aspirations.
Notes to Editors
About New College Durham
New College Durham is one of the North East's leading further and higher education colleges, delivering high-quality academic, technical, and professional education to thousands of learners each year.
The college offers A-Levels, T-Levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, degree-level higher education, and professional training, and continues to work closely with employers to ensure students develop the skills needed for the region's economy.
Recognised nationally for technical excellence, New College Durham is one of only four Department for Education-designated Technical Excellence Colleges for Advanced Manufacturing and plays a leading role in the North East Institute of Technology. Its specialist facilities include the National Battery Training & Skills Academy, advanced engineering workshops, digital laboratories and industry-standard learning environments that prepare students for careers in the industries of the future.