STEM at Priestley

Priestley’s STEM programme has become a flagship of excellence, delivering outstanding results year after year. Students across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics consistently achieve top grades, reflecting both their dedication and the high-quality teaching they receive.

What sets this programme apart is its blend of academic rigour and real-world experience. Learners regularly take part in exciting trips and enrichment opportunities, both in the UK and abroad.

From visiting cutting-edge research facilities and experiencing countries such as Romania, to engaging in science fairs and STEM competitions, students gain invaluable insight and inspiration beyond the classroom.

With passionate staff, innovative teaching, and a commitment to opportunity and excellence, the STEM programme empowers students to aim high, think critically, and make a real impact in the world.

'I would recommend studying at Priestley College if you have hopes of going to Oxford or Cambridge as the support you receive throughout the entire experience is really valuable and set me up to make a really competitive application to Oxford'

'Every teacher at Priestley is there to help you do the best you feel that you can do. If you want to get those grades they will absolutely be the best support they can be'

'I was constantly pushed to get those higher grades with lots of extra curricular activities to help boost my skills and help future employment prospects'

'The careers advice I received at Priestley helped me to perfect my CV and applications and prepare me for the apprenticeship application process'

Academic Excellence

Priestley’s STEM Class of 2025 achieved outstanding results such as in Biology where 68% of the cohort achieved A* to C and in Electronics where there was a 100% pass rate. There was also a 100% pass rate in all the other areas of STEM..

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World-class Destinations

Priestley’s STEM students secure places at the country’s leading universities as well as apprenticeships and employment with world-leading companies.

Successful Alumni

At Priestley every STEM learner matters and we prepare them as best we can for a bright future in whatever

Charlotte Glover

Charlotte achieved A* A* A* A* at Priestley College and progressed to University of Oxford where she is studying Earth Sciences. Charlotte has returned to Priestley to share her experiences with the current cohort aiming for similar success.

Tom Southern

Achieved a Distinction* in Engineering at Priestley before securing an apprenticeship with the Mercedes Formula 1 team.

Catherine Ross

Secured A A A in Maths, Biology and Chemistry at Priestley and went on to University of Bath to study Biomedical Sciences. Catherine is now working and living in London as an Application Specialist in molecular diagnostics.

Thomas Shaw

Thomas Shaw has just graduated from Oxford after completing his Chemistry degree and is moving on to start his PhD at the University of Liverpool. Thomas achieved four A*s in his A-Levels at Priestley and was one of the first students to benefit from the OxNet programme.

Mason Duxbury

Mason studied Engineering. Core Maths, Product Design and IT at Priestley. Afterwards he progressed on to a Degree Apprenticeship at Bentley Motors.

Charis Chau

Charis Chau earned three A*s to secure a place at Imperial College London studying Chemistry. Charis took part in the High Achievers' Programme and additional Chemistry workshops at Priestley to ensure she got the grades she needed.

Ethan Baird

After securing an A* in Biology and A in Chemistry and a B in Psychology, Ethan successfully progressed onto the University of Manchester to study BSc Biotechnology and MSc Bioinformatics and Systems Biology.

Noore Saba

On results day Noore, who wants to become a doctor, achieved an A in Psychology and Bs in Chemistry and Biology. During her two years at college she completed the MDV and High Achievers' programmes, which helps prepare Priestley students for applying and studying at the UK’s most competitive universities.

Enriching your STEM experience

Priestley’s STEM students benefit from extracurricular activities – both in the classroom and beyond. These experiences might be in the form of guest visits or trips to the world’s most ecologically diverse environments. It could be a Maths competition or an Engineering challenge. Whatever STEM subject you opt for at Priestley we aim to provide an extra activity for you.

Learn from the best

Priestley’s STEM students benefit from the knowledge of teachers who specialise in their subjects. Their expertise is invaluable and includes both academic and industrial experience that helps set up students for university and careers in STEM.

In Biology, learn from a Genetics and Microbiology specialist who has eight years working in the NHS, trained as a clinical scientist in microbiology and is an AQA examiner for A-Level Biology.

In Chemistry be taught by a specialist with 20 years of experience teaching the subject and five years A-Level examination marking as well as experience in the pharmaceutical sector. You may have a tutor with First Class Honours in Natural Sciences (MSci) who completed a PGCE at University of Oxford and who has completed research published by The Royal Society of Chemistry.

In Maths, learn from experts with a PhD in Numerical Analysis or an MSc in Astronautics and Space Engineering. You may also be taught by principal examiners or leaders in Mathematics education.

In Physics and Engineering, learn from experienced staff who have developed extensive links with organisations and industry to provide opportunities for students outside of the classroom.

STEM Specialisms

As well as a wide range of courses, Priestley also offers a number of STEM-focussed Specialisms designed to enhance your learning and make you stand out from the crowd.

MDV

Our programme for students hoping to go into Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary careers

Benefits include talks from doctors, dentists and veterinarians. We also stage medical ethics debates as well as pose problem-based learning & critical thinking challenges. Support with work placements, personal statements, UCAT and interview techniques.

CORE MATHS

Develop your application of maths skills

One-year L3 course enabling students to develop application of maths skills, particularly useful if you are studying Science, Geography, ICT, Business Studies, Economics or Psychology. UCAS points are equivalent to AS points tariff.

NHS CADETS

Our programme for students hoping to go into Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary careers

This one-year course introduces essential skills for both NHS Cadet work and future healthcare roles. Students develop awareness of practical skills including moving and handling, GDPR, safeguarding, and First Aid. All useful in future healthcare careers.

Extended Project

Choose a research topic and impress universities

One-year course worth up to 28 UCAS points, where students choose their own research topic including along themes of Sustainability, which is suited to students interested in Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, Geology, Geography, Chemistry, and Engineering.

HIGH ACHIEVERS

This programme is for students aiming to study at the UK's most competitive universities

A programme designed to develop the skills necessary for academic success both at college and beyond, building the skills and confidence needed to apply to the most competitive universities, including Oxford, Cambridge and Russell Group institutions.

We are proud to be a STEM-assured college