Outstanding success at tougher exams by Bishop Luffa GCSE pupils

Outstanding results greeted excited pupils as they received their GCSE envelopes this morning. Pupils have excelled themselves this year.  The new specifications are tougher than before: coursework is out and terminal exams are in; the rote-learning of much more knowledge is the new style, which is tested in more and longer exams. These have been stressful times for our young people.

Overall, 36% of all exams gained the top range of points 9-7, equivalent to the old A*-A grades, and 88% of all entries gained grades 9-4 (or A*-C). There were over 150 entries at the top grade 9. We are delighted that these results are even better than before.  

Of significant note was the achievement of Will Murphy who scored a grade 9 in all nine of his subjects, one of only 732 pupils nationally. Holly Heffron gained eight 9s and an 8, at the same time as preparing for representing England in boxing. Jamie Hudson and Alfie Scott each achieved a fantastic six grade 9s, two 8s and 1 A*.  Another 20 pupils gained at least six grade 8 or 9 - the equivalent of A* - Clementine Alexander, Molly Berry, David Bisatt, Lily Bristow, Stella Brooke-Jones, Louis Buckler, Thea Dyson, Alyssa Elliott, Jemma Georgeou, Jess Gleeson, Finn Grimmett, Beth Hall, Lizzie Kies, Kezia King, Eleanor Lowes, Charlotte Rawlinson, Jeremy Sharp, Veronica Tondryk, Alice Ward and Daniel Watson.

Mr Andy Jackson, Assistant Headteacher in charge of Key Stage 4 insisted, “These GCSE exams really test pupils’ determination to work hard and keep going when it gets tough. At every level of academic ability, pupils have done brilliantly. They have been a great Year group, and we’ve enjoyed working with them.”

We are proud of our young people, and also of all our staff, teaching and support, who have worked so closely with pupils. We have been cautious about the new specifications, and staff have encouraged pupils at every step. 

Mr Nick Taunt, Headteacher