GCSE success for Merrist Wood College and University Centre students on Results Day 2026 

Students at Merrist Wood College and University Centre are celebrating today after collecting successful GCSE exam results with 96.8% of students taking GCSEs achieving a pass in this year’s exams. 

Many of the college’s GCSE students are learners who have resat maths, English or both to continue in education or progress their careers. 

This includes mature students who need these GCSEs to progress in the workplace, learners who may have missed the opportunity to go to university and now want to study at degree level, alongside part-time students who have studied GCSEs through evening classes. 

Hannah O’Neill, Group Director of Academic Studies Faculty at Activate Learning, said: “Today is an opportunity to recognise the commitment, resilience and perseverance our learners have shown throughout their studies. Their results reflect not only academic achievement, but also the personal growth and confidence they have developed along the way. 

“Every student has followed their own unique journey, and behind every set of results is an extraordinary story of determination and ambition. Seeing our learners reach this milestone makes today a moment of real celebration; every learner should feel proud of their progress. 

“As they move on to their next step, whether that is A Levels, T Levels, vocational programmes, apprenticeships, training or employment, we are excited to see what they achieve next. The future is full of possibilities, and we are confident they will continue to thrive. 

“For any students who are considering their options, our teams are available to provide advice, guidance and support to help them make informed decisions about their next steps. 

“I would also like to thank our exceptional teachers, leaders, support colleagues and partners. Our staff care deeply about what they do and are committed to creating opportunities for every learner to succeed. Through their dedication, expertise and encouragement, they make a lasting difference to the lives of our students and the communities we serve, and we are proud to celebrate these achievements alongside them today.” 

Eva Bennie studied GCSE English alongside her Level 3 Animal Management programme at Merrist Wood College and University Centre and is celebrating a Grade 6 in her GCSE English.  

Eva said: “I would like to say thank you to my teachers for their understanding of my struggles. I wouldn’t have achieved the grades I got without their help, support and encouragement throughout the year. 

“I would definitely recommend studying at Merrist Wood College and University Centre, I really enjoyed my course, and it is a really nice and supportive environment.” 

Eva will now continue into her final year of her Level 3 Animal Management Diploma at Merrist Wood College and University Centre, with hopes to progress to university on its completion.  

Isabella Gee studied GCSE English alongside her Level 2 Animal Management Diploma and is celebrating a Grade 5.  

Isabella said: “I am happy as I can now progress onto my Level 3 Diploma. I really like biology because it’s a really interesting subject and I have learnt a lot about animals and their internal and external biology.” 

Isabella will now progress onto the Level 3 Animal Management Diploma at Merrist Wood College and University Centre, with wishes to progress into a practical role in the future.  

Merrist Wood College and University Centre offers part-time GCSE courses in English and maths alongside a wide range of vocational and technical programmes, including A Levels, T Levels, BTEC and other Level 3 programmes, alongside apprenticeship opportunities via Activate Apprenticeships. 

This year, Merrist Wood College and University Centre is offering information, advice and guidance through Clearing appointments from GCSE Results Day and throughout the end of August and September. Tutors and careers advisers will be available to support anyone who is unsure about their next steps after GCSEs and can also provide advice on funding and student support services. 

Clearing appointments can be booked via the Activate Learning website.