Bradford College

A-Level Student with Star Quality

As one of Bradford College’s star students, Matthew Denton’s achievements have included winning the 2011 Adobe Annual Student Award, The Determination and Progress Award at the annual Festival of Achievement for two years running, and being one of the College’s highest achievers for GCSE’s.

Adding to this impressive list, Matthew has just gained an amazing 2 A’s and one B in this year’s A level results.

So what makes Mathew special you may ask when so many students these days gain A’s and A*’s?

Matthew was born with Aspergers, a mild form of Autism and has had to overcome many difficulties to become the exceptional student we know today.

Whilst at school, Mathew was unfortunately bullied, he explained: ‘I had problems at school in terms of learning and getting on with people. The pupils used to put me down and call me stupid as my grades weren’t great. I just kind of gave up.’

“Since his arrival at Bradford College four years ago, Matthew has grown in confidence and determination”,’ comments Tony Laycock, Head of Bradford College Sixth Form Centre.  Tony Laycock continued: “He came to Bradford College a very different young person to the one who leaves us today”.  Tony firmly believes Matthew’s success has been achieved not only through his own endeavours, but also through the Colleges policy of small tutored groups’ and one to one support."

Matthew remarked: “I’m still shaking. I can’t believe I have done it….I think I’m going to wake up any moment and that’s it’s all just a dream!’

Michelle Sutton,  Principal at Bradford College, commenting on Matthew’s great achievements said: “Matthew is a great example of how our students each take a personal and often arduous journey. He is an inspiration to others and not only do I congratulate Matthew on his outstanding A level achievements but also the staff who encouraged and supported him every step of the way.”