Catholic schools celebrate GCSE results

The Academy of St Francis of Assisi in Kensington, Liverpool, part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, is among among schools around the country celebrating a third consecutive year of improved results

In English literature, 55 per cent of students achieved grades 9–4, up from 50.6 per cent in 2024, while maths saw an increase from 43.9 per cent to 48.5 per cent at grades 9–4.

With more than 55 different languages spoken at the academy, this year’s achievements reflect the school’s rich diversity. More than 45 per cent of Year 11 students speak English as an additional language, and many have gone on to achieve GCSEs in their first languages.

Talal Al-Mashehari from the Academy of St Francis of Assisi opens his results.

Combined results for English and maths at grades 9–4 rose significantly, from 36.7 per cent to 44.4 per cent. Alongside these successes, notable improvements were seen in attainment across English, history, maths, languages and science, contributing to the academy’s sustained rise in overall achievement.

Some students will continue their studies at All Saints Sixth Form College in Garston while others have chosen different paths, including apprenticeships and training programmes.

Youssef Trabelsi achieved six grade 9s for biology, chemistry, computer science, English literature, maths and physics, grade 8s in history and English language, and a grade 7 in religious education. He is going on to study at the University of Liverpool Maths School. Talal Al-Mashehari achieved seven grade 9s for English literature, computer science, maths, combined science, history and Arabic, two grade 8s for religious education and English language. He is going on to study computer science, maths and physics at Archbishop Blanch Sixth Form. Talal said: “I am very proud to achieve these grades for which I worked so hard for.”

These students are being monitored closely because they are the ones whose key stage 2 tests were cancelled due to the pandemic as they prepared to leave primary school.

Nationally, 67 per cent of all grades in England, Wales and Northern Ireland were at 4 of C and above. The regional gap between north and south in England was lower than last year, but still higher than it was before the Covid pandemic. While the number of top grades rose, the overall pass rate decreased in England while rising in Wales and Northern Ireland, leading to growing concerns about the numbers of resits that will be required.

Pupils at Catholic schools celebrate top A level results

Education and confidence – The Pastoral Review

The Douay Martyrs Catholic School followed its A Level success last week with outstanding GCSE results, ranking again among the top-performing schools in the London borough of Hillingdon.

A third of all grades were at the highest levels of 9-7 with results in many subjects far above the national average, especially in Religious Studies, English, all Science subjects, Sociology and Geography.

Headteacher Fiona McCloskey said, “We are grateful to the parents and carers, whose encouragement and partnership have played a vital role in our students’ success. As a school community, we could not be prouder. We look forward to seeing our young people continue to flourish in the next stage of their education.”

Most students will continue their education at the school’s sixth form.

Among the top performers was Caleb, who achieved one grade 9 and two grade 8s and expressed gratitude for the support received: “The school has been with me every step of the way, from providing effective revision strategies to offering constant encouragement when I needed it most. That belief in me made such a difference. I’m excited to take the next step and begin my A Levels here at Douay, where I know I will continue to be challenged, supported, and inspired.”

Another high-achieving student, Liana, who achieved two grade 9s and four grade 8s, said, “My time at Douay has been fantastic for building lifelong friendships and developing strong, supportive relationships with my teachers. That support has been invaluable in helping me achieve my grades. I’ve chosen to stay on for sixth form because I know the teachers, the school, and the high standards we work towards. I’m confident that I can continue to excel at A Level and perhaps do even better.”

Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School in Coventry saw pupils achieve its best results since moving to the 1-9 grading system in 2020

Winifred Otubo (right) celebrates scoring ten 9 grades at GCSE with her mother, Patience (left). Photo credit: Cardinal Wiseman School

Winifred Otubo, said: “I feel ecstatic, because I knew I worked hard, and I feel like at some point after the exams you start to question everything. I’m really happy I met the expectations for sixth form, and just happy to see that hard work pay off
because it’s very encouraging going into A-Levels especially.

“I want to go on to study medicine at university – fingers crossed. It’s an incredible experience getting your results in person compared to digitally – and being able to look at the people who have helped you all these years in the eye and hopefully making them proud.”

Karolina Kotowska, who achieved one 6, one 7, three 8s, five 9s, said: “I’m really relieved, I was stressed and unsure but now I feel great. I didn’t know what I was going to get and whether I would get into my options for sixth form, but I have and I’m really excited. I’m ready to start in September.

She plans to go into art psychotherapy and added: “We did a lot of mocks, which helped for the real thing and made it less stressful.”

Ana-Maria Crasovean, who attained one 6, two 7s, three 8s, three 9s, said: “At first I was really nervous, my hands were shaking, I did so much revision, but I had a feeling I wasn’t going to do as well as I hoped. But I was really taken aback. It has been stressful, there were so many exams, but I tried to stay calm on the morning of each exam and it paid off.”

Valentino Uzoegwu, who achieved one 7, six 8s, two 9s, said: “I was a bit worried after the exams, especially after Geography but now I feel great. The school helped a lot, and I think the interventions helped me get these grades. You didn’t feel as stressed because of the mocks, they really helped. It was a great year. ”

He plans to enter the field of engineering in the future.

Part of the Romero Catholic Academy, the school opened its doors to pupils on results day but also gave them the option of receiving results via a smartphone alert in a system being piloted across the West Midlands and Greater Manchester.

The interim head of school, Laura Burtonwood said: “These results will open the door to new opportunities, whether that’s in further study, apprenticeships or training, and we look forward to seeing what they go on to achieve next.”

At New Hall School, Chelmsford, pupils and staff were celebrating record GCSE results with a record 64 per cent of grades 7+ (A*/A) and 43 per cent of grades 8+ (A*). Almost a quarter of all grades were at the top grade 9 and 82 per cent of grades at 8+ (A*) in Further Maths.

Principal Katherine Jeffrey said: “We are incredibly proud of our Year 11 students. Their commitment, resilience, and enthusiasm for learning have shone through in these outstanding results, with almost a quarter of all grades at grade 9. It is a testament not only to their hard work but also to the supportive and inspiring learning environment we provide.”

Top achiever, Harry W, alumnus of New Hall Prep, achieved a clean sweep of 12 grade 9s. Harry said: “I am really happy with my results. If I had to sum up my time at New Hall, I would say it has been incredible.” Other students who achieved an outstanding seven or more grade 9s included Zandra A, Hawley boarder and alumna from St Mary’s Hare Park School, Augustas D, alumnus of Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School, Toby D, alumnus of The Tyrrells Primary School; Florian F, Petre boarder and alumnus of St Paul’s Cathedral School and Ho Ching F, Petre boarder and alumnus of Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School.

Director of boarding, Samuel Carroll, said: “These exceptional results highlight the advantages of boarding in fostering confidence and offering students valuable opportunities to enrich their academic studies.”

Cardinal Pole Catholic School, 2024 School of the Year, claimed its place among the top 25 per cent of schools nationally with another set of exceptional results.

The school said this was achieved through “an unwavering commitment to compassion, inclusion, and community”.

Executive headteacher Adam Hall, said, “We work with every young person, and we do so through patience, structure, and a belief in their potential. Our results are proof that when you treat children with dignity and compassion, they rise. This is what education in Hackney demands of us, that we see the potential in every child, no matter the circumstances. We don’t close our doors to those seeking help.“

Results were strong across the board, particularly in English Language, English Literature, History and RE. In addition, arts subjects continued to flourish, with 100 per cent of students in 3D design, 94 per cent Art students and 83 per cent of Music students attaining at least a grade 4 also putting these departments among the top in the country for progress.

Head of Year 11, David Wilson,said, “I am immensely proud of our students’ fantastic achievements in their GCSE examinations. Throughout the year, they have shown hard work, dedication and resilience – in lessons, revision sessions and mock exams.”

Highlights from individual students included Jamal Barrie with 99888888, Ryan Rodriguez with 99888887 and Manuella Berko with 99987776. Jamal said, “I feel very appreciative of my results, I worked very hard. I’m happy I got all the grades I needed, and had the support and motivation from my teachers at Cardinal Pole. I believe providence is key.”

At St John Bosco Arts College in Croxteth, Liverpool, a girls’ Catholic comprehensive school with a Salesian ethos, results showed significant progress compared to last year, marking a step forward in the school’s overall exam performance.

Teigan Dunleavy, who achieved two grade 9s, a Distinction and a Distinction*, is staying on at St John Bosco to continue her studies. Evie Price, who secured an outstanding six grade 9s, three grade 8s and a grade 7, is also progressing to A level study.

Another student who is continuing at St John Bosco Arts College is Maria Douba who said: “I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved and grateful to my teachers for all their support. Opening my results today was a mix of nerves and excitement, but seeing my grades has made it all worth it. I can’t wait to start sixth form at Bosco in September to study A level biology, chemistry and physics, and I’m looking forward to taking the next step towards my future career.”

Headteacher Darren Gidman said: “This morning has been a fantastic celebration of resilience and achievement for all at St John Bosco Arts College. It has been a real joy watching students open their results envelopes as they see the hard work they’ve demonstrated during their time with us come to fruition with these tangible outcomes.

“At St John Bosco, we are guided by our core values of love, faith, community, respect and hope that inspire our students to flourish. Today, we’ve seen those values reflected in the success and growth of each student, marking an important milestone in their academic career.

“Whether students are continuing with us in September or moving on to pastures new, I would like to wish each and every one of them the very best of luck and congratulate them once again on their outstanding results.”

St Bonaventure’s School in Forest Gate has achieved excellent GCSE results and its sixth form is once again oversubscribed.

Head boy Reuben, far right, and St Bon students with their GCSE results.

Despite national changes and a year group without KS2 baseline data, the school has continued to deliver strong outcomes for the vast majority of students, the school said. Most progress successfully into Key Stage 5 with a wide range of options available, and many have chosen to continue their journey at St Bonaventure’s Sixth Form. Among the top individual performances, Nash secured eight grade 9s and two grade 8s, Zachary excelled with eight grade 9s and two grade 7s and head boy, Reuben achieved two grade 9s, three grade 8s, three 7s and one grade 6.

Headteacher Mr Christopher McCormack said, “It is wonderful to see our students’ hard work and commitment rewarded with such positive results. These achievements reflect the dedication of our students, the professionalism of our staff, and the ongoing support of families who have worked in partnership with us throughout the year. We are incredibly proud of this cohort and look forward to welcoming many of them into our 6th Form.

St Mary’s School in Cambridge was celebrating superb results.

Forty-one per cent of students at the independent day and boarding school for girls attained grades 9-8 at GCSE and 80 per cent grades 9-6. Sixty-three per cent of all grades were 9-7.

Hannah Helliar, Head of St Mary’s School, said: “These excellent GCSE results fill me with such immense pride – not just for the grades achieved, but for the remarkable young women our students have become. Each result represents a student who has been encouraged to question, explore and discover her own potential. For over 125 years, St Mary’s has been opening doors for young women, and today we see those doors leading to exciting opportunities moving into Sixth Form. These students embody the confidence and curiosity that will serve them throughout their lives – they are truly ready to make their mark on the world.”

Students at St Mary’s School Cambridge celebrate their GCSE success. Photo credit: St Mary’s School Cambridge.

A student from Hope Academy in Newton-le-Willows will go on to study at Eton College, Berkshire

Vin Stokes attained four grade 9s, four grade 8s and a grade 7 at GCSE. He is part of a bursary programme run by the Hope Opportunity Trust and the Royal Springboard Foundation.

Fellow bursary students who have also gained places at top independent schools including Emma Brookes who will attend St Peter’s School, York, Celia Cunliffe who will study at Concorde College in Shrewsbury, Rhys Knowles who is going to Wellington College in Berkshire and Musa Miah who will attend Haberdashers’ Adams School in Newport. Talia Moorhouse is going to Pocklington School in York.

Other top achievers included top achievers included Zahra Bhatti, who secured 9s across every subject area and Grace Frame who achieved six grade 9s and four grade 8s. Violet Fuller achieved four grade 9s and five grade 8s while Nicholas Tickle secured four grade 9s and five grade 8s and Jessica Livesley attained one grade grade 9 and eight grade 8s.

In addition, Arun Prasher, Joshua Quin, Abidul Haque, George Cain-Morris, Phillip Grabowy, Thomas Cannon, Thomas Wilde and Jack Underhill all exceeded their target grades.

Marie Adams, principal of Hope Academy said: “Congratulations to our Class of 2025, and my thanks go to our dedicated teachers and support staff who truly make a difference in the lives of our students. Through a well-rounded curriculum, we help our young people to achieve, grow and develop the confidence they need to take their next steps.”

Zahra Bhatti celebrates achieving grade 9 in every subject taken at GCSE. Photo credit: Hope Academy.

Vin Stokes will pursue his education at Eton College in Berkshire. Photo credit: Hope Academy.

The Academy of St Nicholas in Garston marked significant improvement in GCSE results. Part of the All Saints Multi-Academy Trust, the school celebrated  exceptional performances in art: 88 per cent of students obtained grades 9 -4, and 52 per cent achieved grade 6 or higher.

A significant improvement was noted in  numbers of students obtaining a grade 4 or above in both maths and English language. Vocational subjects have also shown marked progress, with an additional 10 per cent of students gaining Level 2 qualifications, with a 4 per cent increase in Distinction grades.

Notable successes this year include Larissa Barreto, who achieved an average GCSE points score above 7, including three grade 8s and five grade 7s. Fellow student George Collison secured five grade 7s and one grade 8, while Kate Jones achieved a grade 9 in English Literature.

Headteacher Gary Lloyd, said: “We are extremely proud of our Year 11 students and all they have achieved during their time with us. Their results highlight just how hard they’ve worked and the progress they’ve made.”

Students at the Academy of St Nicholas celebrate their results: (left to right) Larrissa Baretto, Kate Jones and George Collinson.

Photo credit: The Academy of St Nicholas.

Notre Dame Catholic Academy, a member of the St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust, celebrated results that exceeded expectations, demonstrating resilience, perseverance, and unwavering determination, the school said.

Anthony Doyle emerged as one of the standout successes of the day with grade 9s in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, 8s in Religious Studies and Maths, and grade 7s in History, English and Computer Science. Asked how he felt, Anthony, whose ambition is to be a doctor, said, “I won!”

Shemaiah Oyeyemi also achieved remarkable results, with grades 9s in Religious Studies and History, Grade 8s in Biology, Chemistry and Physics and Grade 7s in English and Maths. Shemaiah is remaining at Notre Dame Catholic Academy 6th Form and eventually would like to study medicine at university. Harvey achieved Grade 9 in Maths and Science Trilogy, 8 in Computer Science and 7s in English and History. Hannah Wilson achieved Grade 9 in History, 8s in English and Religious Studies.

Headteacher Victoria Taylor said: ‘Overall, Notre Dame Catholic Academy’s GCSE results day was a tremendous celebration of achievement and perseverance. The success stories of students like Anthony, Shemaiah, Harvey and Hannah exemplify the academy’s commitment to nurturing talent and focusing on academic excellence. These students’ accomplishments are a testament to the supportive environment, dedicated staff, and resilient students that make Notre Dame Catholic Academy a place where success is celebrated and futures are shaped.

“In the words of St Julie Billiart, ‘It is not enough to do our best; we must do what is necessary’. Our students have gone above and beyond, demonstrating that commitment and effort are the keys to success. Their work ethic reflects a true Catholic ethos, living out values of hope, charity, and steadfastness. I am inspired by their journey, knowing that their accomplishments today are a testament to their grit and God’s grace guiding them.”

Bishop Challoner Catholic School in Tower Hamlets, which joined the Lux Mundi Catholic Academy Trust last year, reported improved progress at both KS5 and KS4. 

Adam Hall, executive headteacher, said, “These results, coupled with last week’s fantastic sixth form results clearly demonstrate that Bishop Challoner is back on track and delivering strong outcomes once again for all. I couldn’t be more proud of this group of young people. It has been amazing to see their smiles as they opened up their results today. A massive thank you goes out to our wonderful staff, who have worked tirelessly with our students. We also extend our gratitude to parents for their support at home, and of course, to our governors for their invaluable guidance. We are confident that our students will go on to achieve in whatever path they have chosen next, whether it be sixth form, college, or apprenticeships.”

Results were strong across the board, though some individual subject areas shone. Dance, Art, Biology, English Language, French, Maths, Physics and Sociology reported GCSE results that are well above national average.  

Top, Lucien, going on to the BRIT School, and Divine, bound for the City of London Academy. Photo credit: Bishop Challoner Catholic School.

Head of upper school, Anton Innocent, said, “I am immensely proud of our students’ remarkable achievements in their GCSE examinations. The entire Bishop Challoner community continues to take great pride in our students, and these results have only heightened that. Their hard work and dedication have been evident throughout the year, and their results are a testament to their efforts.”

Highlights from individual students include: Chantel Oteng with 6x9s, 2x8s and 1×7, Adia Ivy Dowey-WIlliams with 4x9s, 3x8s, 1×7 and 1×6, Jevan Glen with 4x9s, 1×8, 2×7 and 2×6. 

Sakib Alam, below top, going to Bishop Challoner sixth form said: “Good friends and supportive teachers carried me through my GCSE’s’. Kiara Gomes, below, added, “Do your best and God will do the rest.”

Students at St John Plessington Catholic College in Bebington, a member of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, recorded an increase in the number of pupils achieving grades 9-7 and 9-5 in both English and Maths.

David Fatokun, who achieved grade 9s in biology, chemistry, English language, English literature, geography, mathematics, physics and religious studies, as well as a grade 8 in computer science, said: “This shows that if you aim high, anything is possible.” James Alford received a grade 9 in chemistry, grade 8s in biology, English language, physics and religious studies, grade 7s in English language and Spanish, a grade 6 in geography and a grade 5 in English literature. Daniel Chung secured grade 9s in chemistry, Mandarin, mathematics and religious studies; grade 8s in biology, English literature and physics; a grade 7 in geography; and a grade 6 in English language. Daniel also achieved a Level 2 Distinction in information technology. Daniel said: “It is important to believe in yourself and not compare yourself to others.” Pietro Frigo received grade 9s in physics and religious studies; grade 8s in chemistry and mathematics; grade 7s in biology, geography and Portuguese; grade 6s in English language and English literature; and a grade 5 in computer science. Pietro said: “I am very proud of my results and what I achieved. Everyone should be proud of what they have achieved.”

Headteacher Peadar McLoughlin said: “I always feel hugely privileged to be able to witness the sheer joy on students’ faces as they open their GCSE results and today was no different. It has been a delight to celebrate our class of 2025’s achievements this morning. Their results are a testament to the resilience they have shown to their studies, along with the unwavering support they have received from their families and our staff, who have been alongside them during this journey. I’m extremely proud of all students who have received their results today and look forward to welcoming many of them back in September.”

Outstanding GCSE results at All Saints Catholic High School make it one of the top-performing schools in the London borough of Hackney

All GCSE students secured grades 9 to 4 in Biology and Chemistry while 87 per cent did so in French, and nearly 80 per cent did so in computer science.

Headteacher Andy English said: “Our students have worked hard and these results show their commitment. The improvement in their average attainment is a real strength this year. I am also delighted by the exceptional language outcomes and the
improvement in grades across several subjects including Religious Education.”

Shreena Sowden, Head of Year 11, described the GCSE takers as “ an inspiration. They’ve met every challenge with maturity, perseverance, and a real sense of purpose. It’s been a privilege to watch them grow into confident young women, ready for the next stage of their journey. These results reflect not just their hard work, but the strength of character and community we value so much at All Saints.”

Formerly known as Our Lady’s, All Saints ranks in the top 20 per cent nationally for Progress 8 based on 2024 data.

Students at All Saints Catholic High School in Hackney celebrate their GCSE results. Photo credit: All Saints Catholic High School.

At Our Lady Queen of Peace College in Skelmersdale students celebrated outstanding results in GCSE science and excellent outcomes in vocational subjects

Numbers of students achieving grades 9–5 in both English and mathematics increased, while 89 per cent of students attained grades 9 -4 in biology, chemistry and physics. Of those taking sports studies, 40 per cent attained Distinction or Distinctions* while 83 per cent secured a Level 2 Pass or higher in health and socia care.

Seven students attained grade 9s in religious education, while many others who achieved clusters of grade 9s across a range of subjects, including English, geography, maths, biology, history and photography.

Olivia Fairclough. the highest-performing students achieved outstanding set of results in 10 GCSEs, including grade 9s in RE, English language, English literature, biology and history and top grades in maths, chemistry, physics, French and fine art.

She will take A-levels in modern history, law and psychology. Phoenix Cross, achieved grades 9–7 across all 10 of his GCSE subjects. Phoenix attained grade 9 in mathematics and Distinction*2 in sport studies. Rafal Frankowski also celebrated remarkable results, including grade 9s in religious education, geography and Polish and grades 9-7 in a total of eight subjects.

Mary Henshaw, headteacher of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic College, said: “I am incredibly proud of our students and their achievements. Seeing the pride on their faces as they opened their results was a wonderful reminder of what today is all about”.

“Their hard work and determination have truly paid off, and we celebrate not only their exam success but the exciting futures that now lie ahead.”

Olivia Fairclough attained the best results in her year group at Our Lady Queen of Peace College, Skelmersdale.

Joshua Peters and Phoenix Cross celebrate receiving their GCSE results. Photo credit: Our Lady Queen of Peace College.

Students at St Mary’s Catholic College in Wallasey celebrated strong results

The class of 2025 at St Mary’s Catholic College, part of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, has demonstrated improvements since last year.

 Nathan Richards achieved grade 9s in design technology and art, and grade 8s in religious education and geography.

Oscar Sherwen attained a Distinction* in drama, a Distinction in music, a grade 8 in religious education, and grade 7s in computer science, English, and maths.

Missy Duggan achieved a Distinction* in health and social care and child care, and a Distinction in dance. Antonia Holt’s results included a Distinction* in drama and in health and social care.

Kevin Maddocks, headteacher at St Mary’s Catholic College, said: “It has been an unforgettable morning here at St Mary’s as staff, students and their families have come together to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Year 11 cohort.

“Our students’ success is a testament to the hard work and commitment they have shown throughout their GCSE studies, and they should be very proud of the progress and growth, both academically and socially, that they have made during this time.”

Many of the year 11 cohort are moving on to apprenticeships or will take A-levels and BTEC qualifications at the school’s new HFC Sixth Form College which opens next month. They include Riley Stevens who will study maths, computer science and physics and Maddie Fessey, who is staying on to study art, psychology and sociology.

Pupils at St Mary’s Wallasey receiving their results: (left to right) Oscar Sherwen, Antonia Holt, Riley Stevens and Logan Gaines. Photo Credit: St Mary’s College.

St Columba’s College in St Alban’s said its GCSE results built upon last week’s exceptional A-level results.

Nearly 40 per cent of this year’s GCSE-takers achieved at least one grade 9, the highest mark, while 55 per cent of all entries were rated at the top grades of 9-7. A full two thirds of the year group gained between seven and eleven GCSE grades at 9-6.

Seventy per cent of all students achieved at least one grade 8, and 28 per cent of those taking GCSE Religious Studies attained grade 9. This year, the Catholic Schools’ Inspectorate rated St Albans’ ‘outstanding’ in every category.

Karl Guest, the headteacher said: “All our students have worked extremely hard and applied themselves with determination and integrity to reach their individual potential. Their results could not have been achieved, however, without the unstinting support of their teachers; our enthusiastic staff have worked tirelessly and cultivated strong relationships to give the students the confidence to thrive in their endeavours.”

”At St Columba’s, we are committed to educational growth and innovation; lessons combine the best of traditional teaching methods with the use of digital devices and this has, once again, generated impressive results.”

Students at St Columba’s College, St Albans receiving their GCSE results. Photo credit: St Columba’s College.

At St Anthony’s Girls’ Catholic Academy in Sunderland celebrated GCSE results that outstripped the national average

Almost 70 per cent of students have achieved 5 GCSEs or more at grades 9-4 while 26 per cent of all grades achieved were at level 7-9 or equivalent. Nearly two thirds of grades achieved were a strong pass or above.

Individual successes at the school, which is part of the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust included those achieved by Mya Ellis: for six of her 10 GCSEs she obtained a grade 9 and for four, a grade 8.

 “I hoped for good grades but tried to manage my expectations,” said Mya, who is taking A-levels in History, English Literature and French at St Anthony’s and St Aidan’s Sixth Form. Another student, Isabel Evans attained grade 9 in 4 of her 11 GCSEs 3 at grade 8 and 4 at grade 7, while Gaia Locquiao obtained 7 GCSEs at grade 9, 2 at grade 8 and 1 grade 7. She also attained a Distinction * in BTEC Sport. 

Headteacher Marie Lanaghan said: “These grades are the result of the hard work and determination of our students, and the support and encouragement from our team of dedicated staff.”

At St Wilfred’s Roman Catholic College, 75 per cent of all grades were at Grade 4 or above, with a significant increase in the number of students achieving strong passes in both English and maths. Notably, the proportion of students securing Grade 5 or higher in maths rose by 10% compared to last year.

Headteacher Catherine Lennox said: “Our fantastic pupils continue to shine! Their excellent results are a testament to their attitude, resilience, and months of hard work.”

The school belongs to the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust.

St Aidan’s Catholic Academy in Sunderland said its outstanding results included 36 Grade 9s awarded across various subjects. Seven were given to students taking GCSE History, and nine to Religious Studies students.

Other successes included 62.3 per cent of pupils attained a strong pass in both English and Mathematics, with 79 per cent achieving a standard pass. One pupil, Rienald Braga secured eleven Grade 9s.

The headteacher, Anne-Marie Whitten said: These results are not merely grades; they are a clear reflection of the unwavering dedication and hard work of our pupils, supported by the tireless commitment of our staff. More than that, they are passports to the future.”

Part of the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, St Aidan’s is committed to a broad and balanced curriculum, evidenced by the fact that 73 per cent of its pupils completed the EBACC pathway, a demanding curriculum designed to maintain wide options for further study and future careers. 

Downside School in Somerset celebrated an excellent set of results

Forty eight per cent of all grades were 9 -7 and the school enjoyed particular success in French where 86 per cent of all students obtained a grade 9 or 8. Notable successes were also achieved in computer science and the school said that many across the year group had surpassed expectations.

Mike Randall, the interim head of Downside School said: ”We are delighted with this year’s GCSE results. These pupils have shown remarkable resilience and commitment, working with determination and character. What pleases us most is not just the headline statistics, but the individual stories of pupils who have fulfilled their potential and now move forward with confidence into the next stage of their education. These results are also a reflection of the dedication and care of our staff, who have worked tirelessly to support, encourage and inspire pupils throughout their learning journey. Together, staff and pupils form a community where achievement is not only possible but expected, and today’s results are a wonderful celebration of that shared effort.”

Students at Downside School in Somerset which is celebrating an exceptional set of results. Photo credit: Downside School

Commenting on today’s results, the Religious Education Council warned that in spite of being the seventh most popular subject, RE is taught by the highest number of non-specialist teachers and there is growing concern about the impact on society of poor quality teaching.

The number of students taking Religious Studies at GCSE in England and Wales has fallen, with a decline of 2.6 per cent following a 0.9 per cent rise in entries from 2023 to 2024. This year 249,422 students took a GCSE RS (full and short course), making it the seventh most widely taken subject in England and Wales out of the 31 offered at Key Stage 4.

Sarah Lane Cawte, chair of the Council, said: “We have a worrying situation in our schools where one of the most widely taken GCSEs is taught by an ever-declining number of specialists. Too many in this enormous cohort continue to receive poor quality, tokenistic RE as an afterthought, something that threatens to undermine societal cohesion and leaves students poorly prepared for life in modern Britain.”

Stay updated — add us as a preferred news source on Google: