
Global Academy’s Year 13 Class of 2025 has seen a record 62% of students achieving Distinctions in their UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma, the equivalent of three A*s at A Level.
The achievement follows a year of change for the Hayes-based sixth form, which welcomed a new principal and underwent an Ofsted inspection.
In March this year, Ofsted rated the Sixth Form as Outstanding, praising “exceptionally high student outcomes, strong vocational qualifications, and industry-led work placements”.
Year 13 student Conrad said his two-week work placement with Global’s engineering team prepared him for his new role as a Junior Broadcast Engineer at News UK.
Another student, Siobhan, credited the Academy with expanding her knowledge in editing and advertising, ahead of travelling to South Korea to teach media and English.
This year, students have secured roles with TwoFour Productions, ITV, Wavemaker, and News UK, along with nine apprenticeships at Global.
Principal James Murray-Walsh praised the cohort’s commitment, saying the results reflect “their dedication and hard work” and the high standard of teaching and support.
Many students will stay on for Year 14 in September, Global Academy’s free alternative to university focusing on Creative Enterprise, which allows them to build portfolios, launch projects, and further their creative careers.
This story first appeared on radiotoday.co.uk