‘Absolutely elated’: Students celebrate A-Level results at English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Bridget Krancioch‑Daniel is just one of many students excited for the future after achieving As in music and English literature and an A* in French.

Bridget, who is on her way to Durham University to study music in September, said: “Music’s been my passion my whole life.

"I’ve been playing the piano since I was five years old – it wasn’t just my mum making me, I really wanted to play.

“I started singing lessons at the start of secondary school and I was in all the shows I could be at English Martyrs, including Sister Act, Oliver and Annie.”

During her time at English Martyrs, Bridget made significant contributions to music in the school.

As well as running a youth voices choir for students in years seven, eight and nine, she successfully produced a whole-school concert in December 2025.

Unsurprisingly, Bridget knows she wants a future career in music but for now, she’s content to play things by ear.

She said: “I really love composing, so I’d like to do something in that area.”

Bridget’s mum, Kristina, said: “We’re absolutely elated. It’s been quite an anxious few days – there’s been a few tears – so to wake up this morning and know that Bridget is going on to the place she dreamed she’d go is amazing.”

Two young politicians are also celebrating strong A-Level results today.

Sam Bolton and Sam Carr have both played active roles in local politics, remaining friends across party lines.

After achieving the grades they needed, both now plan to go to university to continue their interest in politics.

As youth officer for his local Labour Party constituency, Sam Bolton is passionate about getting other young people involved in politics in Hartlepool.

He said: “Political education is very important. I see politics as the best way to really help make a difference in society.”

He plans to continue his public service ambitions by studying politics and economics at the University of York.

Working with his local Liberal Democrat Party during the May local elections gave Sam Carr first-hand experience of what people in his area are looking for, and he even went so as far to stand as a candidate for the Liberal Democrats in the recent council elections.

He said: “Balancing my political activity with my studies has been challenging, but I have to thank my teachers at English Martyrs Sixth Form for their encouragement and support throughout my journey in politics.”

Sam intends to study politics at Newcastle University and plans to run for public office again at a future opportunity.