THE interim principal at St Mary’s College in Blckburn has praised students after a ‘challenging situation’ with the coronavirus pandemic.

Elissa Best said: “I am delighted to see our students achieve such exceptional results in what has been an extremely unusual and challenging situation for our students.

“These results are well deserved and testament to everybody’s hard work throughout the duration of their study programme.

"As per government guidance face-to-face teaching was halted in March and all our learning moved to online platforms.

"Throughout the online learning process our students and staff have shown real determination to continue to deliver the high standards of teaching St Mary’s College is renowned for.”

The excellent results from St Mary’s mean countless students gained the results they needed to go to their first-choice university to continue their studies and pursue their future career aspirations.

Elissa added: “We are closely monitoring the national picture regarding calculated grades and we will support any of our students who may wish to appeal against the results they have been given.

“As we look ahead to the new academic year, we are extremely proud of all our passionate students and staff who contribute to St Mary’s being one of the best sixth form providers in the area.

"Our excellent results, alongside our Ofsted report, are further evidence of our journey towards outstanding.”

St Mary’s College student Aliyah Patel will soon be starting her studies at the University of Manchester after securing impressive A-level results.

Aliyah, who previously studied at Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School in Blackburn, scored an impressive 3 As in Law, Psychology, and Sociology and will soon be taking her place at the Russell Group, University of Manchester to continue to study Law.

Aliyah said: “I’m so pleased with my results and my family are all really proud of me and can’t wait to see me continue my studies in Manchester.

"St Mary’s has been fantastic, there is a diverse range of help available and they have given me the confidence to achieve my goals.

"Law was my favourite subject at St Mary’s so I am really excited to further develop my knowledge in Manchester,” she added.

Sidra Nasar has her sights set on studying Psychology at UCLan after attaining a fantastic set of A-level grades.

Sidra, who previously studied at Mount Carmel RC High School in Accrington, scored an impressive 3 A*s in Psychology, Law and English Literature and will now move to UCLan to pursue her passion for Psychology.

Sidra said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at St Mary’s College, I found all the teachers and staff extremely supportive, especially the dedicated student guidance team who offer fantastic support when applying for your university places, and helping you prepare for interviews."