EIGHT students from Holy Cross College are heading to Oxford and Cambridge universities, having received exceptional results in their A-levels.

The high-flyers are the cream of an impressive crop from the Manchester Road sixth form, which has recorded an overall pass rate of 98 per cent at A-level and BTEC.

Principal Daveth Frost said: “I am delighted once again for both our students and our staff at the very high level of achievement at A-level and BTEC at Holy Cross.

“Students holding Oxford and Cambridge offers have been successful, several with straight A* grades, and will be joining the already significant contingent of Holy Cross students at those universities.

“But Russell Group and other competitive and excellent local universities will also welcome large numbers of our leavers.”

More widely, Mr Frost said it was inspiring to see such a high proportion of A*, A and B grades at A-level – 48.4 per cent, as well as distinctions at BTEC – 86 per cent.

Sixty-one students achieved at least three A*s or As at A-level and 26 per cent of all departments teaching A-level subjects achieved a 100 per cent pass rate.

The college is ranked second in the North West for successful university entrance from sixth-form colleges and sixth nationally.

Mr Frost added: “Because of our distinctive ethos, inherited from the Daughters of the Cross and maintained by our Diocese, we are equally proud of students who have worked hard to achieve solid success at any level.

“As usual our students are in a secure position whether they choose university or employment.

“At every level the college continues to help students achieve their best potential.”

Applications for September 2018 have broken records and the college is oversubscribed again.

It is therefore urging those seeking entry for next year to apply well before the deadline of Friday December 1 this year.

Mr Frost added: “My thanks are due to our students themselves, our wonderful staff, our governors and all who serve the college in any way.

“Holy Cross continues to serve the people of Bury and neighbouring districts as it always has, as a unique institution with a strong ethos of high achievement, excellent pastoral care, broad enrichment and a resolute focus on the individual.”