High achieving students choose to stay local

Staffordshire University has been helping college students across North Staffordshire to celebrate their results day successes

Harry Faulder and Prof Annabel Kiernan web

Student Harry Faulder and Professor Annabel Kiernan

It is great for our region to witness so many people doing so well. Huge congratulations to the students whose hard work has paid off. For those who are still uncertain about their future or contemplating alternative options, please know that Staffordshire University is here to support you in finding the right path.

Professor Annabel Kiernan, Pro Vice-Chancellor

This morning, students at Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College received a personal congratulations from University Vice-Chancellor Professor Martin Jones as they opened their A Level results.

Bethany Standeven,18, from Hanley, is going to study LLB (Hons) Law at Staffordshire University after achieving A*, B and C in her A Levels.

“I’m over the moon, it’s not what I expected at all!” she commented. “I chose Staffs because it’s a great university and it has a great support system from what I’ve seen on the Open Days and Offer Holder Days. It’s a brilliant place to learn and it’s local to me so I know the area and I feel comfortable there.”

Last year, it was reported that up to a third of students starting university may opt to live at home due to cost-of-living concerns. In response, Staffordshire University introduced a new cost of living bursary for first year students who come from households with an income of less than £25,000.

Professor Jones said: “It was a privilege to join students at Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College as they received their results — an exciting moment filled with potential and new beginnings. We are delighted that many have chosen to stay local and come to Staffordshire University.”

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Annabel Kiernan visited students at Stoke-on-Trent College and Newcastle College to congratulate students on their achievements.

Harry Faulder, from Cheddleton, has gained a distinction on his Media Production Extended Diploma course. He is progressing onto the BA (Hons) Film Production course at Staffordshire University. He said: “I looked at a lot of places, but Film at Staffs Uni is the best. I know three people who’ve done the same course and feel I’d get most help there. I never really excelled at school and so to have done as well as I can is nice.”

Lilly-Rose Kennington, 20, from Congleton, can’t wait to get started on the Games Art degree at Staffordshire University, after achieving a distinction on the Extended Diploma in Creative Practice, Art and Communication at Stoke-on-Trent College.

“It’s one of the best for games art in the country and ranked top for games in The Rookies so was a pretty clear choice. I want to get into the games industry and develop my skills so I can get any job I want.”

Charlotte Bennett, from Packmoor, has achieved triple distinction* in her BTEC in Uniformed Protective Services at Newcastle College. The 18-year-old is now heading to Staffordshire University to study Forensic Investigation.

Charlotte said: "I went to an open day at Staffs and the facilities were really interesting. As soon as I got there, I was in a Hazmat suit and was taking photographs of the door before you enter a scene. We got to see the lab side as well.

"I definitely see myself as a forensic investigator. There's no going back now. I'll be there with a little brush at a robbery, getting all the information."

Professor Kiernan said: “It is great for our region to witness so many people doing so well. Huge congratulations to the students whose hard work has paid off. For those who are still uncertain about their future or contemplating alternative options, please know that Staffordshire University is here to support you in finding the right path.”

Clearing Information Advice and Guidance from Staffordshire University:

  • Visit staffs.ac.uk/clearing to view all courses in Clearing, access our Offer Generator to get an instant decision online and talk to us via our Live Chat function
  • Talk to our specialist advisors by calling our Clearing Hotline on 0800 590 830
  • Book a campus tour taking place at Stoke-on-Trent and Stafford campuses.
  • Book on to our on campus Open Day taking place on Saturday 17th August
  • Message us on social media – find us by searching @staffsuni

Latest news


Two people seated at a table, pen in hands, in front of pull up banners

Education partners clear the path for student progression

University of Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent College are joining forces to help more students to upskill and realise their potential.

A female student in the Data Junction.

Cyber security student secures dream Disney internship

Binita Makanji, a second-year BSc Cyber Security student has secured a highly sought-after internship at The Walt Disney Company.

Suited man with hand in pocket stood in front of digital screens

University of Staffordshire unveils new brand identity

Staffordshire University is thrilled to announce that, from today, it will officially be known as ‘University of Staffordshire.’

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021