Results Day at Xaverian College was filled with excitement and pride as students studying A Level Mathematics and/or Further Mathematics showcased their exceptional achievements in the recent examinations.

This year a record number of high grades (A*-B) were awarded to students – 60% in Mathematics and an impressive 88% in Further Mathematics.

Students dedication, countless hours of problem-solving, and unyielding commitment to the subject were evident in the remarkable results they obtained.

Layi Ladoja, who achieved three A grades in Mathematics, Music and Physics and gained a place studying Aerospace Engineering at The University of Sheffield, said: “I’ve enjoyed studying at Xaverian a lot and have met so many cool people. There are a lot of kind teachers here and I always felt really supported whenever I had any problems in my subjects. The experiences I have had here will stay with me for the rest of my life. I’m really happy with my grades and that I got what I needed to progress to university.”

Jake McMeekin, a former Chorlton High School pupil, who achieved A*A*AA in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Politics and Physics, added: “I’ve enjoyed my courses and found them interesting in different ways. I feel challenged in all my subjects and that I am learning so many new things that will benefit me in the future.

“We cover some really interesting topics in Mathematics and Further Mathematics and each week during lunchtimes, I have been to the Problem-Solving Club, where we looked at high-level MAT and STEP questions, which are tests that are taken as part of the admissions process for some universities.”

Xaverian College also offers Core Mathematics, a course intended for those who pass GCSE Mathematics but do not wish to study it at A Level. Studying Core Mathematics helps students develop their quantitative and problem-solving skills. This is valuable preparation for the quantitative skills they will need for many degree courses, particularly subjects such as psychology, geography, business-related courses, sports and social sciences, and natural science courses.

Suunga Mungwala, is progressing to Durham University to study Business Management after gaining grades ABBC in Economics, Business, Psychology and Core Mathematics.

She said: “I was not expecting to achieve such great results! I struggled with my mental health when I first joined Xaverian, but my teachers have been extremely supportive and have always gone the extra mile to ensure I succeed.

“I’m already exploring the different routes I can take following my Degree. At the moment, I am thinking about gaining a Master’s Degree and PhD!”

Stefanie Elstub, Further Mathematics Teacher, commented: “I believe Mathematics is the most fascinating subject and I aim to instil the level of enthusiasm I have into the minds of my students.

“Every year, we witness the incredible potential of our students unfold. Their passion for mathematics and their thirst for knowledge inspires me! They should be incredibly pleased with their success!”

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses. Visit xaverian.ac.uk to find out more.

Eight students from Xaverian College secured places at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge and more are off to study medicine in September.

Hamza Hagi, a former Manchester Academy pupil, who achieved four A* grades in Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics and gained a place studying Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, said: “It’s been a really good experience for me at Xaverian and the support has been amazing. The teachers are always approachable and there is always someone to talk to if you need it.”

Amelia Chapman-Nisar, a former pupil at Priestnall School, gained AAA in English Language, Mathematics and Economics, securing her a place to study a Degree in Classics with Ancient Greek at the University of Oxford. Commenting on her success, Amelia said: “I’m surprised but delighted that I got the grades I needed for the place!

“I had a really good experience at Xaverian. The College staff were really supportive when I applied for Oxford. The Oxbridge Programme really helped me when I did my personal statement and also the mock interviews were useful in preparing us for the real interviews.”

Other students joining Hamza and Amelia at the University of Oxford, include:

• Gulliver Hubbard, A*A*AAA, English and French
• Anna Brown, A*A*A, History
• Bradley Williams, A*A*A*A*, Chemistry
• Laila Al-Terawi, A*A*A, Medicine
• Jake McMeekin, A*A*AA, Mathematics and Philosophy

Joining the Oxbridge celebrations was Ciara Avis, who achieved 3 A* grades in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics and an A grade in her EPQ and gained a place at the University of Cambridge to study Natural Sciences.

Adam Boukhchem, celebrated achieving grades AABC in Geography, Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology and securing a place at his first-choice university.

“Being at the College has helped me to build my character as I came to Xaverian as a very shy individual. I feel more adventurous and confident to take on new challenges, meet new people and have had opportunities I never thought would be possible. I’m really proud to be a student here!

“All of my hard work has paid off and I will be heading to the University of Bristol to study a Masters Degree in Cancer Biology and Immunology, this will be followed by a Postgraduate course in Medicine.

“Ultimately, my goal is to work in innovative surgery and medical research to advance medical techniques, so there are new treatment options for diseases like diabetes and cancer to improve people’s quality of life and help them to recover more quickly. My motivation for this comes from my Grandma who passed away in recent years, and following volunteering at Tameside Hospital, research and studying online medical programmes, I felt like it was the right place for me.”

Mariam Mohamed completed her GCSEs at Chorlton High School before joining the College in September 2021 to study A Level Sociology and Cambridge Technical (Double) Health and Social Care and is progressing to Edge Hill University to study Operating Department Practice.

She said: “I’ve found being a student at Xaverian really enjoyable and rewarding. The teachers are really friendly and all the support I’ve received means I have been able to gain my place on a university course that will prepare me to work supporting patients in an operating theatre environment.”

Gaining their places was the culmination of significant additional work over two years by the students, who were all part of the College’s specialist ‘Oxbridge’ and ‘Medics, Dentists and Vets’ Programmes, unique and tailored programmes that prepare students to apply to highly competitive courses, at the UK’s most prestigious universities.

All students were delighted to receive their offers and are excited about the prospect of embarking on their Degree programmes at university and learning from the universities’ expert lecturers. 

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers exciting opportunities to over 2800 students. To find out more, visit xaverian.ac.uk.

Staff and students at Xaverian College are celebrating today as the College enjoys yet another year of excellent A Level and BTEC results.

A Level students achieved a pass rate of 98%, with particular success in Graphic Communication, Photography, Music, Textiles, Further Mathematics and Film Studies, with over 80% A* to B grades awarded.

Students have secured many highly competitive places, including Medicine, Engineering, Midwifery and Teaching, at some of the UK’s top Russell Group Universities, while many students are also now set to kick-start their careers in industry after achieving the grades for a number of highly sought-after degree and higher-level apprenticeships.

Emilio Fox Castineiras, who achieved A*A*BB grades in Film Studies, Spanish, English Language and History, commented: “I plan to study Politics or Philosophy at university, before pursuing a career in the creative industries, but first, I will be spending a year in Spain studying a course in modern jazz.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Xaverian, there is a really good atmosphere here. Some of the people I’ve met here as students will be friends for life and the teachers have been really inspiring – I’ll never forget their lessons.”

Mahima Basith, who joined the College after completing her GCSEs at Levenshulme High School, gained three A*AA grades in Chemistry, Ancient History and Mathematics and is progressing to the University of Manchester to study a Degree in Optometry.

She said: “I’ve loved being at Xaverian! Teachers have been really good at equipping us with the resources we need to do well in our courses, and I couldn’t have imagined myself studying anywhere else.

“I would love to become an Optometrist in the future and undertake research into Keratoconus, which is an eye condition that runs in my family, and I’d like to learn more about the condition and what causes it.”

Today also marks a triumph for the College’s BTEC students, who achieved a pass rate of 99%, with 255 students achieving Distinction* or Distinction grades and over 75% gaining high grades of DMM and above.

Hannah McClelland-Leech, who achieved D*DD in Health and Social Care Cambridge Technical (Triple), has gained a place to study a Degree in Adult Nursing at Manchester Metropolitan University. She commented: “I’m so happy I’ve got the grades as I didn’t expect to achieve what I did, so I’m really delighted. Once I complete my Degree, I’d like to work in health care as a Diabetic Nurse to support people who have the condition.”

Zen Kaonga, a former pupil at Dixons Brooklands Academy, gained a Distinction in IT CTEC, and two B grades in A Level Business and Economics. Later this year, Zen will be progressing to the University of Manchester to study a Degree in IT, with plans to pursue a career in software development or network maintenance.

He said: “The jump from GCSE to A Level is not easy, but the teachers at Xaverian and the support available really helped me to improve and all the hard work has paid off as I got the grades I needed for university!”

These excellent results build upon the College’s recent success in receiving a glowing Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ report, in which Inspectors praised the students “overwhelmingly positive attitude to their learning” and the “safe, friendly and inclusive” learning environment.

Principal, Tony Knowles, said: “Today’s results reflect so much of what is unique about Xaverian College, extraordinary students with ambition, first-class teachers and dedicated support professionals working together to create this amazing momentum.

“I am extremely proud that we have been able to play a part in our students’ success to date and a small part of who they will become in the future. We wish the Class of 2023 all the best for their next chapter.”

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses. Visit xaverian.ac.uk to find out more.

Yaseen Choudhury, highly esteemed BTEC Business Teacher at Xaverian College, has recently completed his Early Career Teaching (ECT) programme, marking a triumphant milestone in his career.

Trained during the challenging period of lockdown, Yaseen not only acquired valuable skills in teaching online but also adeptly transferred them to his own classroom, providing his students with an enriching and innovative learning experience.

Beginning his ECT journey in September 2021, Yaseen embraced all new challenges with determination and enthusiasm. Thanks to the guidance and support of his colleagues and mentors, he hit the ground running, delivering impactful lessons as part of a module element of the course and also updated resources for the department, ensuring that students received the best possible education.

Yaseen’s commitment to excellence extended beyond the classroom, as he actively participated in various College activities. He took on the role of a DEI (Diversity, Equality and Inclusivity) Champion, promoting awareness of religious and cultural events. Additionally, he has organised visits to various universities, Chester Zoo and Barcelona, and introduced a brand-new charity fundraising event on-Campus as part of the students Managing an Event module, which has raised nearly £1000 in the last two years.

Yaseen commented: “I’ve loved every part of my ECT and I really enjoy teaching Business BTEC as students get to work on real-world projects that prepare them for their careers. I previously studied a BTEC myself, and during my PGCE I learned how to be an Examiner for Business, so fully understand the course and what is required from students.

“I’m so proud of the journey I have been on over the last several years and feel incredibly lucky to be a part of the Xaverian community!”

As a testament to his passion for teaching and the trust placed in him by the College, Yaseen represented Xaverian during the first Appropriate Body visit to monitor ECT provision, showcasing the robust investment made in nurturing new teachers.

Acknowledging the importance of mentorship and support, Yaseen crafted ECT walk-through booklets and delivered sessions to guide new ECT starters, fostering a collaborative and supportive community among educators at the College.

Tracey Greenaway-Jones, Assistant Principal – Quality, said: “Yaseen’s journey as an ECT at Xaverian College is a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment to our students. He has truly embodied the values we cherish, and we look forward to witnessing the positive impact he will continue to have on our students’ lives.”

To further elevate his teaching prowess, Yaseen recently embarked on the NPQLTD (Leading Teacher Development) programme, along with eight other colleagues, creating an evidence-informed booklet for College based on research, providing relevant examples for the ‘Student Toolkit’ used by teachers to enhance the students learning experience at Xaverian College.

Tracey continued: “I cannot emphasise enough the vital role that staff development plays in fostering an environment of continuous growth and excellence. It serves as a catalyst for elevating teaching standards, enriching the learning experience, and ultimately empowering our students to reach their full potential. Staff at all levels are proud to work at Xaverian and remain committed to their professional development, and this in turn ensures we are able to provide a consistently high-quality education to young people across the Greater Manchester region.”

If you’re passionate about supporting students to grow, flourish and achieve, then visit xaverian.ac.uk to view all vacancies.

Xaverian College held its highly anticipated annual Film Studies and Media Studies Awards Evening on the last Friday evening of the academic year, honouring the outstanding achievements and creativity of its talented students. The glitzy event brought students and teachers together to celebrate the College’s young filmmakers and media enthusiasts.

The Awards Evening was the culmination of two-years of hard work and dedication by students studying A Level Film Studies or Media Studies, courses that have long been known for nurturing aspiring Filmmakers, Screenwriters, Producers, Directors, and media professionals, offering a comprehensive education that combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge.

One of the standout moments of the evening was the screening of students’ work, which highlighted their excellent storytelling skills, technical finesse, and unique perspectives on a range of themes. From thought-provoking social commentaries to gripping narratives, the work showcased a diverse range of cinematic styles and genres.

Speaking about the Awards Evening, Phil Drinkwater, Curriculum Leader – Film Studies, expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments and the dedication of the department. He said: “This evening is a testament to the talent and hard work of all our students and teachers. We firmly believe in the power of media to shape the world, and it is heartening to see our students embracing this responsibility with such creativity and passion.”

Full list of winners (Film Studies):

• Best Actor – Reebie Hughes
• Best Cinematography – Luca Ponsillo
• Best Concept – Carmen King
• Best Director – Hannah Quigley
• Best Editing – Samuel Wild
• Best Film – Lucas Duffy
• Best Mise En Scene – Olivia Quinn
• Best Screenplay – Isaac Nesbitt
• Best Sound Design – James Samuel

Full list of winners (Media Studies):

• Best Mise En Scene – Sofia Curtis
• Best Music Video – Aisha Ashgar
• Best Photography – Reuben Dubowitz
• Best Print – Otis Gregory
• Best Scholar – Evie English

Sofia Curtis, former Parrs Wood High School pupil, has just completed her A Levels in Ancient History, Classical Civilisation and Media Studies. Commenting on her College experience, Sofia said: “Media Studies has been a great subject to study! We do two lots of practical coursework, where we use a combination of learning practical skills and creative ideas. I chose the theme of LGBTQ+ identities, and to do this I learned how to use Final Cut Pro and Photoshop to make a video, front page and double-page spread for a magazine.”

Aisha Ashgar, who has her sights set on a career as an Independent Filmmaker, Editor or Screenwriter, studied A Levels in English Language, Film Studies and Media Studies. Speaking about her College highlight, Aisha said: “Being accepted onto the BFI Academy made me feel really proud and happy. We’ve had great support from the Teachers, who helped us apply for places on the Academy, and really encourages us to make amazing films. It was such a great experience! I worked with industry professionals to produce my own film which was screened at the cinema.”

The Film Studies and Media Studies A Levels at Xaverian are run by industry professionals who teach students the mix of skills needed to excel in the creative industries.

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers exciting opportunities to over 2800 students. To find out more, visit xaverian.ac.uk.

Louis Kidger, a talented and ambitious student from Xaverian College, has achieved a momentous triumph in the prestigious Fitzwilliam College Ancient World and Classics Essay Competition.

The annual competition, led by the University of Cambridge, is renowned for its rigor and attracts entries from students across the globe who possess a profound passion for the ancient world and classical studies. The competition challenges participants to critically analyse and explore various aspects of this historically rich subject.

Louis took on the challenge with enthusiasm and invested countless hours in meticulous research and crafting his essay. His submission, tracking the response of the ‘Spartan Mirage’, stood out among the numerous entries, impressing the esteemed panel of judges with its depth of insight and eloquent articulation.

Commenting on his success, Louis said: “I found the competition incredibly interesting! My essay delved into the Spartan Mirage and the falsified idealisation of the Spartan state, and therefore how the Spartan Mirage is deeply rooted into the fabric of the modern day. I was really pleased to know I had been highly commended and was keen to gain feedback from the judges so I can continuously improve my work.”

Reflecting on his achievement, Louis expressed his gratitude for the guidance and support he received from his teachers at Xaverian College. Their unwavering encouragement and mentorship played a crucial role in honing his analytical abilities and cultivating his passion for studying classics.

Louis joined Xaverian in September 2022 after completing his GCSEs at Longdendale High School to study A Levels in Ancient History, English Literature, Mathematics and Music, and has plans to study a Philosophy, Politics and Economics Degree at university in the future.

He continued: “I hadn’t heard of Ancient History before joining Xaverian and now I absolutely love studying it! The subject is full of diverse and fascinating concepts and you learn about how to identify the truth, which I think is really important today, especially with the rise of Social Media, AI, etc.”

Will Dearnaley, Classical Civilisation and Ancient History Teacher at Xaverian College, commented: “It’s great to see a Xaverian student recognised for their work in the Fitzwilliam College Ancient World and Classics Essay Competition. Louis works exceptionally hard and it’s been a pleasure watching him grow over the past year. He should be really proud of this fantastic achievement!”

If you love thinking deeply about the world around you and are fascinated by culture, then Ancient History and Classical Civilisation are courses you’ll find irresistible. Share your observations, opinions and interests, alongside developing essential critical and creative thinking skills. 

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses.

Seven Year 12 students from Xaverian College recently visited Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford, to participate in this year’s North West Science Network Summer School.  

The partnership between Corpus Christi College, Xaverian College (Manchester), Cheshire College – South & West (Crewe), and Blackburn College (Blackburn), aims to engage students from the North West with research-level science and scientists, and is designed to further equip them to make informed choices about higher education, and to support them in their application and entry into university.

The weeklong residential was packed with a range of activities, lectures, puzzles and challenges which culminated in students presenting ‘Poster Projects’ to academics from the University of Oxford. Students also had the opportunity to visit Culham Centre for Fusion Energy, which is leading the world in developing fusion power – the ultimate source of electricity, where they had a mini tutorial before touring the site. The week ended in the laboratory, where students got to explore live atoms using a powerful electron microscope.

Kelly Chen, A Level Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics student, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Corpus Christi College! Everything was very well structured, including the lectures, the project and other experiments we did throughout the week. I found the chemistry ‘escape room’ experiment most interesting, even though it was challenging. It was really interesting to gain an insight into what university life is like as we start to prepare for our next steps.

Jason Lin, who is also studying A Level Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics, added: “I found it particularly fascinating to learn more about the research and development of fusion energy through confining a plasma of hydrogen isotopes at extremely high temperatures and pressures during our visit to the Culham Centre for Fusion Energy. I aspire to study at one of the most esteemed universities, so gaining the opportunity to meet Professors and current students and find out more about the admissions process has been invaluable.”

Lee Jackson, Careers Advisor, who accompanied the students on the residential, commented: “It is important that we continue to work closely with students to boost their skills and confidence through a variety of academic and professional programmes, such as the North West Science Network Summer School, to ensure they are well-equipped when applying to secure highly competitive offers at prestigious universities. All of our students returned to College informed and inspired about their futures!”

This year, following months of intensive preparation, ten Xaverian students received offers to study at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Gaining their places was the culmination of significant additional work over two years by the students, who were all part of the College’s specialist ‘Oxbridge Programme’, a unique and tailored programme that prepares students to apply to these universities.

Xaverian College is an outstanding catholic Sixth Form College in Greater Manchester offering exciting opportunities to over 2800 students. With a wide range of A Levels in addition to several Applied Courses to choose from, ‘Discover Your Future’ at xaverian.ac.uk.

One of the things that sets Xaverian apart is our commitment to enriching students’ futures outside of the classroom, which is why, at the beginning of this academic year, we introduced our brand-new enrichment programme – Xaverian Xtras.

Our multi-talented staff are leading the way with clubs, such as Chess, Music, Gardening, Book-reading, Drama, Sports and Arts alongside academic programmes such as Medics, Dentists and Vets, Oxbridge and Extended Project Qualification.

Crafty Corner continues to be one of the most popular Xtras Clubs and has been for many years. Crafty Corner is a supportive space for students to learn, practice and develop their ability to knit and crochet.

Here’s what A Level Fine Art and Media Studies and BTEC Business student, Erin, had to say about Crafty Corner: “I found out about Crafty Corner at one of the Open Days and thought it looked really interesting. Throughout doing this enrichment activity, I’ve learned so many new skills such as embroidery and crocheting.”

This year saw the launch of two exciting new activities, Xaverian Apprentice and Xavazine, designed to support students in developing the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed for specific career pathways.

The Marketing Team partnered with the Business Department to introduce our very own spin on ‘The Apprentice’, which is set to see a group of students launch a real online merchandise shop after conducting months of market research and product development.

Students, along with support from our Media Department, have created Xavazine, an online magazine reporting on a mixture of stories from the heart of Manchester. Over the last few months, they have been busy building their website, curating articles and learning from some of the best local journalists.

The Xtras Programme is split into three strands, Study Xtras, Work Xtras and Life Xtras and the wide range of enrichment opportunities gives students a chance to get involved in fantastic opportunities that are fun, interesting and educational, and will give them a really fulfilling College experience.

Xaverian Xtras Co-Leads, Prashant Duggal and Ged Marciniak, said: “Xaverian Xtras has evolved from the College’s traditional enrichment programme into an all-encompassing programme of activities and clubs available for all students to access. It really offers them the opportunity to enhance their learning, take part in competitions, learn a new skill, take up a new hobby, or just have fun, and is the ideal way to complete their learning experience at Xaverian.

“We are amazed by the success of the programme, and we intend to build on its success by introducing new activities in the next academic year.”

Follow us on Instagram (@xaverianxtras) to keep up-to-date with what’s happening.

Every year, Xaverian College welcomes Year 10 pupils from across the Greater Manchester region to its Taster Days, providing them with the opportunity to experience student life at an outstanding Catholic Sixth Form College.

This much-loved Taster Day programme aims to extend learning opportunities, raise aspirations and assist in supporting young people’s transition into Further Education.

Last week, Xaverian welcomed 18 schools and over 1500 pupils, who followed a personalised timetable to sample three subjects before having lunch on-Campus with current students, providing them with a chance to find out everything the College has to offer.

After a welcome assembly from Vice Principal, Antonio de Paola, Year 10 pupils were guided to their first lesson by Student Ambassadors who volunteered their time throughout the week to support and develop their transferable skills.

Pupils had the opportunity to choose three subjects to experience, allowing them to think about the variety of options available post-16. At the end of the day, several pupils commented that the Taster Day was “fun and informative”, that “teachers are really knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects” and that they are “more confident” in thinking about their next steps.

Sarah Cooke, Careers Advisor at Our Lady’s RC High School, said: “Year 10 Taster Days are incredibly important for young people to gain a sense of what it’s like to study at college and allows them to start thinking about where they would like to apply. We absolutely love bringing our pupils to Xaverian each year. It’s such a valuable experience and we always arrive back at school feeling inspired.”

Antonio de Paola, Vice Principal, said: “It is vital that we encourage young people to think about their futures, as it gives purpose to their learning and enables them to develop the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career of their choosing.

“Our Year 10 Taster Days really stretch the boundaries of raising aspirations and I am really pleased that they continue to be enjoyed by our local schools.  It is a pleasure that we can work in partnership with them to empower young people and ensure nothing stops them from reaching their goals.”

Xaverian College provides students with the skills, experience and qualifications to prepare them for their future career or higher-level study, and encourage them to become confident individuals who will make valuable contributions to businesses and the local economy.

Pupils will have the opportunity to visit Xaverian College again in the autumn term by attending one of their upcoming Open Days on Saturday 7^th and Sunday 15^th October 2023. Visit xaverian.ac.uk to find out more. 

Good news story written, and photographs taken by Isabelle and Kasra, Year 10 pupils at Stockport Academy, who joined the College’s Marketing and Schools Liaison Team on Work Experience during Year 10 Taster Days.

The Music Department at Xaverian College has had a busy end to the 2022/2023 academic year with three unforgettable performances.

On Friday 30^th June, nine student-led groups, collectively known as XBand, took to the stage in Club Academy, The University of Manchester, to showcase their incredible talents. The evening was packed with music from a range of genres, with performances from the up-and-coming Manchester-based bands, Polythene, Blue Java and Clovehunter and well-known College soul and gospel groups, amongst several others.

Former pupil from The Barlow RC High School, Kyle Roczniak, who is currently studying A Levels in Media Studies and Music and a BTEC in Music Technology at the College, photographed each band as they performed, sharing highlights on social media for the wider community to enjoy.

Kyle said: “XBand was a lovely way to end my first year at College. Everyone worked unbelievably hard preparing for the event and it paid off – the crowd loved every moment! I am passionate about music and photography, so it was great to get involved. I had backstage access on the night, which provided me with a really valuable experience getting to see how the crew set up and manage music events in a busy venue. My skills were put to the test photographing in changing light conditions and at tricky angles, but everyone was pleased with the results. I can’t wait to get involved again next year!”

The Music Department returned to the world-famous Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), on Thursday 6^th July, for a night of captivating music performances, as part of their annual Summer Concert. Over 120 Xaverian College students, alumni and staff performed as part of 14 ensembles, ranging from small chamber groups to a large concert choir.

Some of the evening’s highlights included, five student soloists, four of whom were winners of the College’s Young Musician of the Year Competition, captivating the audience with their recitals. Peniel Amegee’s heart-warming performance of Etta James’ version of ‘At Last’, alongside the Big Band, directed by Mike Cavanagh. Barnaby Simpson’s spectacular performance of the ‘Warsaw Piano Concerto’ by Addinsell, with an orchestra of over 100 musicians, directed by the College’s Director of Music, Andrew Levendis, and Charlie Fretwell’s scintillating performance of Liszt’s ‘Hungarian Rhapsody No.2’, performed on the RNCM’s Steinway Piano.

Before settling down for the summer break, on Saturday 8^th July, the College’s Concert Choir competed in the Open Class Division at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, one of the most prestigious choral competitions in the world.

The Concert Choir, directed by Ged Marciniak and accompanied by Ben Attfield, consisted of 70 Xaverian students, three staff and two alumni, received a dazzling review from the panel of judges and went on to finish in seventh position, achieving a score of 84 – only six points behind the winners.

Andrew Levendis, Director of Music, said: “All of the staff and students within the Music Department at Xaverian are a real inspiration. I love watching our community of extraordinary musicians performing together and the big smiles on their faces knowing all of their hard work has paid off. We’ve had another hugely successful year as a department, and we’ve ended the year on a high with these three unforgettable performances!”

If you’re passionate about Music, Xaverian offers an A Level in Music for those interested in Performance or a BTEC in Music Technology. Music is also offered as an enrichment option for those who wish to improve their skills alongside studying other subjects.

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers exciting opportunities to over 2800 students. To find out more, visit xaverian.ac.uk – Explore Your Future!

Photo by: Kyle Roczniak