First In the Country for A Level Film Studies

Former York College student, James Swanton, has just found out he was the highest achieving A Level Film Studies student this year, attaining 5920 UMS marks and a WJEC Award. James came first out of all of the candidates who studied Film Studies with WJEC.

Due to his exceptional A Level success, achieving four A grades in Film Studies, English Literature, Theatre Studies and History. James also received an A* for his Extended Project and is now studying English Literature at Cambridge University.

When James, a former Manor CE School pupil, was asked about his A Level studies in the summer he said; “It is instinctive that I go on to study English Literature at university, in fact I never thought of studying anything else. English crosses over with so many of my other interests, including film, theatre and history and all of these subjects I have studied at A Level. York College has been a fantastic release for me. I have valued the independence and freedom that the college offers. There has been plenty of opportunity for me to work on my own in the Learning Centre, which is very well resourced. I have really enjoyed the working environment.”

York College Film Studies tutor, Neil Smith said: “James was an exceptional student who took the guidance of his film tutors, mixed with his personal appreciation for Universal and Hammer films, and developed a outstanding ability within the subject. We are so very proud of his accolade and it is justly deserved, he is a bright student with a very bright future.”

James will be awarded a WJEC prize of £50 and presented with a certificate to recognise his wonderful achievement at the York College A Level Celebration Evening, held at the college on 16th December.

Press Release: 27/11/09