Live Blog: West Berkshire and North Hampshire GCSE results day 2022
Good luck to all the year 11 pupils across West Berkshire and North Hampshire who will be receiving their GCSE results this morning (Thursday).
This year pupils returned to taking exams, after they were cancelled for the previous two years because of the coronavirus pandemic, when grades were given based on teacher assessments.
As with last week's A-level results, we will be bringing you all the reports and photos from schools across the district throughout the day on our live blog.
Results are now in from Trinity School, Kennet School, The Downs School, St Bart's, John O'Gaunt, Park House and St Gabriel's, so scroll down to see more photos from all the schools.
You can also send us your photos of you and your friends celebrating by posting on our Facebook page or emailing them to newsdesk@newburynews.co.uk
Keep an eye on Newburytoday all day and check if we captured you and your classmates celebrating all your hard work over the past few years.
Downe House School
Downe House pupils were celebrating some “outstanding” GCSE results this year.
The school said it was “immensely proud of the girls’ achievements”.
Overall, 88 per cent of all grades were awarded at grades 9-7 and an “amazing” 34 per cent of all pupils achieved nine or more grade 9-8s.
Among them were a number of girls whose academic endeavours have seen them achieve success with an exceptional number of grade 9 -8 results; Lilias (11), Janice (11), Sophia (11) and Jocelyn (12).
The school said is was pleased to see 90 per cent of STEM results (the sciences, mathematics and computer science) were awarded at grades 9-7.
In music 100 per cent of results were grades 9 and 8, with 100 per cent in drama at 9-7.
Headmistress Emma McKendrick said: “I could not be more delighted for or proud of the girls’ achievements.
“They have navigated all the challenges of the last two years with such determination and positivity and their hard work and resolve have been rewarded by excellent results.
“They have very strong foundations on which to build their A-level studies and I have no doubt that they will both contribute a great deal to the life of the school in the sixth form as well as achieve equal success academically. They are remarkable young women.”
St Helen and St Katharine
St Helen and St Katharine celebrated a “fantastic” set of GCSE results with 71 per cent of students achieving 9–8 grades, and 89 per cent achieving 9–7 grades.
Last week’s results saw 41 per cent of all grades awarded at grade 9 and over half of students gained at least eight 9 or 8 grades.
Headmistress Rebecca Dougall said: “I am very pleased for the students and staff who have worked so hard together to overcome all of the challenges of Covid and achieve a brilliant set of results. It has been a really happy morning of celebration with friends, parents and teachers and we are all extremely proud of the students; they can look forward to the excitement of sixth form with great confidence.”
For students like Carys it has been a long wait for the results. Her mother Joyti said: “With all the challenges this cohort has faced, a real achievement has been to get them all to the point of taking exams.”
Emilia and her family are also celebrating her excellent GCSE results.
Her mother, Alison, said: “Both our daughters have really flourished at St Helen’s and the results speak for themselves.”
Emilia has chosen to study history and biology at A-level, as well as maths and psychology as she moves into St Helen’s sixth form.
In addition to her academic study, student Matilda, has continued her dedication to rowing throughout her GCSEs.
Having led Henley Rowing Club to victory in two major events earlier this year – setting a new course record in the process – Matilda has been selected for Team GB after achieving a gold medal in the GB vs France J16s match in July.
She said: “It’s so odd to think that your whole life revolves around your GCSEs and then suddenly it’s gone! And then it’s on to the next chapter with A-levels, and then university.”
2.20pm: Pangbourne College – report by Sarah Bosley
Pangbourne College is celebrating a pass rate of 93 per cent (grades 9-4) for its GCSEs this year ¬- with 46 per cent of the grades awarded between 9-7.
Mark Seccombe, deputy head academic said: “Given the significant challenges that this cohort of pupils has faced over the last three years, we are delighted with these results which are largely consistent with those achieved last year.
“We are particularly proud of the increase in grade 9s, which are nearly double the number awarded in 2019.”
Individual GCSE success stories include Eva who achieved nine grade 9s.
She said: “I’m kind of shocked! The biggest surprise has been achieving a grade 9 in mathematics, as I struggled with the subject in primary school but worked really hard to achieve the best I could.”
Eva will be returning to Pangbourne College in September to study biology, chemistry and French A-levels.
Oliver achieved eight grade 9s, a grade 8 and a grade 7. He added: “I’m feeling pretty good about my results, especially as we haven’t had a ‘normal’ education over the last three years.”
He will also be returning to the college to study maths, further maths and physics at A-level.
Thomasin achieved top marks with eight grade 9s, a grade 8 and a grade 6 and she said: “‘I’m especially pleased with the grade that I achieved for further maths.
“I’m looking forward to coming back in September to study English, history and French A-levels and will be continuing to represent the college in equestrian competitions.”
Mr Seccombe added: “Across the UK, pupils’ education has been hugely disrupted by the lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, along with further periods of remote learning due to localised outbreaks of Covid.
“They have also been impacted by staff absences for the same reasons. It is striking that these pupils have not had a normal year of education since they were in Year 8.
“My sincere thanks goes to our academic and pastoral staff who have supported our pupils during this challenging period, and I congratulate our pupils who have demonstrated enormous industry and resilience to achieve what they have.”
2.15pm: Little Heath School, Tilehurst – report by Hinna Amani
Little Heath in Tilehurst has celebrated the "outstanding" results achieved by pupils, as well as those who have made "significant progress since the beginning of Key Stage 2".
Among those who achieved "outstanding" results were Muhsin I with 10 grade 9s and one 8, Aftab B who achieved nine 9s and two 8s, Thea W with seven 9s and four 8s, Matthew H with six 9s and five 8s, Grace W for her achievement of six 9s, three 8s and one 7 and Hayley C with five 9s, three 8s one 7, one 6 and one 5.
Celebrated for their "significant progress" were Jaden I for nine good passes including three 6s and two 5s, Emma C for ten good passes including one 8, two 7s, two 6s and four 5s and Jeswin J for nine good passes including three 6s and five 5s, among many pupils who have progressed since Key Stage 2.
Headteacher David Ramsden said: “I am delighted that students from the Class of 2022 have achieved the success that they so richly deserve.
“Right from the start, when they joined the school in Year 7, five years ago, they have been a hard-working and determined year group.
“In the past two and a half years this cohort of students have experienced a Key Stage 4 programme like no other, yet they have demonstrated resilience and commitment to achieve their very best throughout their GCSE courses.”
He continued: “This was particularly evident in their approach to remote learning during the national lockdowns and when they returned to school.
“As a year group they have showed tenacity and a determination to achieve their very best, under uniquely difficult circumstances, and the results today have demonstrated what a talented group they are.”
1.35pm: The Clere School – report by Dan Cooper
There were smiles at The Clere School in Burgchlere as it celebrated some excellent GCSE results.
One of the top performers, Alex Marke, was delighted after achieving eight 9s and two 7s.
He has managed to secure his place at Basingstoke’s Queen Mary’s College to study A-levels in Computer Science and mathematics.
“This is much better than I was expecting, so I’m absolutely thrilled with the results”, he said.
Meanwhile, Zachariah Sharpe is off to study psychology, sociology and mathematics at Peter Symonds College in Winchester after getting two 9s, seven 8s and a 7.
Zachariah said he would be celebrating with a home-cooked Chinese meal because “Mum is an excellent chef.”
Also off to Peter Symonds is Georgia Cottam, who achieved two 9s, three 8s and two 7s. She’ll be studying computer science and design technology at A-level.
The16-year-old said she would be enjoying some time in Wales before restarting her studies in September.
1.35pm: Denefield School – report by Hinna Aamani
Denefield School in Tilehurst has congratulated its pupils on their “outstanding” results with 32 per cent achieving 9-7 grades, above the national average.
It also praised the vocational results achieved with 39 per cent receiving a distinction* to distinction.
The schools breakdown of GCSE results saw 71 per cent of pupils achieve grades 9-5 and 84 per cent achieve a grade 9-4.
Vocational results saw 59 per cent of relevant pupils receiving a distinction* to merit and 94 per cent achieving a distinction* - pass mark.
Headteacher Edwin Towill said: “Today is all about destinations and we are excited that our students are able to move into the next stage of their lives with confidence and resilience.
“It is wonderful to see so many of our students wishing to return to Denefield Sixth Form, with others starting exciting new college courses, apprenticeships or training.”
The school praised its top achievers including Anna F who achieved ten 9's, and a BTEC level 2 distinction*, Katie G who achieved eight 9's, one 8 and a BTEC level 2 distinction* and Frankie B who achieved eight 9's and two 8's.
1.30pm: The Willink School, Burghfield Common – report by Cameron Blackshaw
The Willink School in Burghfield Common celebrated a fine set of GCSE results from its year 11 students this morning.
Of the 184 pupils in the year group, 83 per cent achieved grades 9 to 4 in English and mathematics and 70 per cent got 9 to 5 in the same subjects.
A total of 82 per cent of students achieved 4 and above in English and maths and 4 and above in three other GCSE subjects.
Head teacher Peter Fry said: “The Willink School is delighted to announce this year’s GCSE and Level 2 results.
“On the back of two-and a-bit years of disjointed learning, the product of the pandemic, these results are an accolade to our students’ great determination and resilience.
“For over 70 per cent of our students to achieve at least five grade 5s is a wonderful achievement – and I must pay tribute to our staff for the first-rate support and guidance provided to our students over this time.
“Finally, it would be remiss of me not to mention Sarah R who achieved the grand slam – ten grade 9s. Wow.”
1pm: Theale Green School – report by Cameron Blackshaw
Theale Green School year 11 students celebrated their “truly outstanding exam results” after receiving their GCSE grades this morning.
Language teacher Lesley Parker, who is retiring after 31 years at the school, was delighted to discover that one third of students taking French GCSE achieved an 8 or a 9.
Headteacher Joanna Halliday said: “These outstanding results are a reflection of the dedication that both students and staff have shown.
“During the course of the year we have received national awards for sport, had the most amazing Ofsted report, been visited by the Secretary of State, seen our Year 13 go off to wonderful destinations and now these GCSE results for our brilliant Year 11 feel like the cherry on top of the cake for the young people and for our community.
“A long-standing member of staff said to me today, ‘I’ve waited twelve years to come in to a set of results like this.’
“It is a huge privilege to be part of this wholesale transformation and to see the success of each individual student.”
Head of school Charlotte Badarello added: “We are so excited to now welcome this year group into our sixth form.
“They have been role model students throughout the last two years, and they have been nothing but a pleasure for all of us to work with.
“We are immeasurably proud of their incredible success, which has come through hard work and a hugely positive attitude. Many congratulations to them all.”
12.30pm: Trinity School, Newbury – report by Robbie Stelling
Trinity students are enjoying a summer of success after this year’s GCSE students excelled just as much as last week’s A-level cohort – not even the rain could dampen their spirits!
Trinity students were rewarded for their resilience and commitment – particularly over the last 18 months – with an incredible set of results.
“This set of students have made great contributions to our school and wider community since they started their journey with us and we are looking forward to many of them returning to our sixth form, achieving further success in their A-level and BTEC courses,” the school said in a statement.
“We’d also like to thank our dedicated staff and parents for supporting out students to achieve personal excellence.
“Congratulations and well done to all!”
A total of 71 per cent of students gained both mathematics and English at grade 4 and above, while 100 per cent of students studying German, biology, chemistry, physics, music and physical education achieved at least a grade 4 and 90 per cent of all students who took art, dance, photography, childcare and business studies gained at least a grade 4.
Two-thirds of this year’s cohort are returning to Trinity next month to continue their educational and personal journeys at a sixth form which is "renowned for consistently delivering results in the top 25 per cent of schools nationally".
Henry Read-Denness achieved five 9s, three 8s and two 7s in a fantastic set of results.
“I studied maths, business, computer science, geography, citizenship, computer science, biology, chemistry, physics and English,” Henry said.
“I was very nervous this morning, I’ve been nervous for the last 24 hours. I was actually travelling back from a holiday by myself, it was a nine hour trip so I had a lot of time to think.
“I’m going to head into town to celebrate, hopefully I’ll get some free food.
“I’m going to take business, maths, psychology and sociology at A-level.
“I’m not too sure what kind of career I’d like to do, I’m thinking I might do a business degree but who knows.
“I’m relieved, I’m happy and I’m excited to start A-levels now.”
Frankie Hamer was another Trinity student celebrating excellent results.
“I was aiming for 7s and above and I managed to get that, I’m so happy,” she said.
“I was nervous but I accepted that I couldn’t change what I was going to get.
“Covid made things difficult but we were given some advance information on what was in the exams, so that really helped.
“Now I’m going to study biology, psychology and business at A-level.
“I’m not sure what I’m going to do for a career but I think I’d like it to involve psychology.”
Likewise, Daria Zapodeanu achieved fantastic results that included four 9s, four 8s and a 7.
“I did better than I was aiming for, it’s great and really exciting,” she said.
“I was so anxious coming in this morning, but like a calm anxious.
“We knew the grade boundaries might be a little bit lower, so that was a relief.
“I’m going to do A-levels next, I’m studying chemistry, English language, French and textiles.
“See I keep saying I’d like to have a career in journalism, something to do with words and writing, look at that!”
A wise choice indeed, Daria.
Gemma Porter gained an amazing three 9s, six 8s and a 7.
“I was aiming for 7s and I mostly got 8s, so I’m really happy with my grades,” she said.
“I was quite calm this morning, a bit nervous but we’d already done the exams, there was nothing I could do to change the results.
“I’m studying business, sociology, law and geography at A-level.
“I’d really like to study law at university and become a lawyer or solicitor in the future.”
Both Ruby Fox and Eloise Furnival also celebrated brilliant results.
“I did all the core subjects and then geography, history, French and citizenship as well,” Ruby said.
“I’m really happy with my results, it’s a huge relief too.
“I was very nervous this morning.
“I’m going to study biology, chemistry, maths and geography at A-level.
“I think I’d like a career in science, I’m not too sure yet but definitely university after A-levels.”
Eloise added: “I did the same subjects as Ruby and I’m really happy too, it’s nice.
“I was nervous as well, I opened my results with my family, I think they’re really proud.
“We’re going into town now, hopefully we get a Nando’s, that’s what’s on my mind.
“I’m doing biology, French, health and social care and English literature at A-level.
“I’d like to be a midwife.”
Students and staff at Trinity can now take some well-deserved time to celebrate their success – let’s hope there’s a Nando’s or two to look forward to – before embarking on exciting new A-levels, BTECs and careers.
11.50am: Kennet School, Thatcham – report by Hinna Aamani
There were smiles all round, and some tears of joy, at Kennet School in Thatcham with 74 per cent of pupils passing five or more qualifications including English and Maths.
The school is celebrating the performance in the top range of results with 26 per cent of all grades being between 7 and 9- which are A* and A equivalents.
Today’s results have been called “some of the best that the school has ever seen” with it being an improvement on previous years.
Of all subjects, performances were best in chemistry and physics with 62 per cent of pupils achieving high-level grades.
Maryam Putwa achieved four 9’s, five 8’s and a 7 and is looking to study biology, chemistry and sociology at sixth form. She said: “What I have got, I am happy with but I do feel like I haven’t processed it yet.
“I didn’t expect any 9’s, just something between 6’s and 8’s.
“I am going to go home, tell my parents what I got in person and spend time with family. I think we are going to make a cake.”
Also celebrating with cake is Lola Milroy- Tompkins who achieved six 9’s and four 8’s.
She said: “I think for some reason I have more adrenaline now that I have seen them.
“I feel very privileged that I had the opportunity to show off in an exam, there has been no foul play with grades and I am really proud that I demonstrated that I can do very well despite the circumstances we had in Year 10.
“I am going to go home to Mum who is baking a big chocolate cake.
“I don’t think she’ll give me her secret recipe yet though.”
Jay Parmer achieved eight 9’s and two 8’s and hopes that one day he’ll be able to continue his studies in France.
“I really want to study in France and become fluent in another language but also the tuition fees there are cheaper.
“Exams were quite stressful and difficult but at least I got to take exams, I am feeling good now I think.”
For now Jay will be staying at Kennet for sixth form to study French, art and photography.
Aimee Dickson received five 9’s, four 8’s and one 7. She said: “I am feeling happy, I can’t be disappointed with what I got.
“I didn’t sleep much last night. This morning I looked at the grade boundaries when they came out and tried to guess what I got. It was the waiting for me, I knew they [results] were at school but I couldn’t see them.”
She said that she is now feeling relieved and appreciated the support she received throughout her GCSE journey.
“The teachers had been really helpful, especially with subject teachers trying to help you to do your best,” she said.
“They had extra study sessions at lunch and after Covid it was nice to have that extra support.”
She will be staying at Kennet to study PE, biology, maths and further maths.
Jessica Abraham achieved nine 9’s and one 7. She is hoping to study maths, computing, music and music tech at A-level with the hope to venture somewhere in the music or computing industries.
Marc Denis was pleased with receiving six 9’s, three 8’s and two 7’s. He will be studying maths, further maths, computing and economics at A-level and looks forward to the freedom that will come with focusing more independently on subjects that he enjoys.
Erin O-Donoghue received seven 9’s, two 8’s and one 7 and said she did not think she would have done as well as she did. “I am less stressed now,” she said.
Headteacher Gemma Piper, who is soon due to become full time trust CEO after five years as head said it has been an exciting day.
She said: “It has been a very invigorating day. The majority of pupils are just absolutely enthralled with their results.”
She said the school has been adding additional assessments in order to normalise the GCSE experience for pupils.
“There is no reason for this experience to feel strange for them," she added.
“What is really important is for a young person to understand and know themselves as a learner.”
She said she would now be able to focus considerably on ensuring that young people are able to attain exceptional life choices.
She added: “I am really honoured to have been asked to focus on one of my two roles.”
Current senior deputy headteacher Grace Rigg, who will be taking on Gemma’s role in September, said “Kennet has a really special community, when I had the opportunity to take acting headship, it was something I was really excited to do.
“Our position is strong but there are always areas where it could be better.”
Mrs Piper added: “We call ourselves high performing but we are self-improving. We are quite self-critical.”
11.20am: The Downs, Compton – report by Cameron Blackshaw
Year 11 students at The Downs School in Compton were celebrating a fantastic set of GCSE examination results for the year group.
16 per cent of all grades were an 8 or a 9 (A* and above), 71 per cent were grades 9 to 5 (A*to B), and 86 per cent were
grades 9 to 4 (A* to C).
84 per cent of students achieved at least the standard pass 4 to 9 in English and mathematics, and some 62 per cent achieved the strong pass 5 – 9 in both subjects.
Matthew Simms, who got 9s in all of his subjects, said: “Obviously I’m happy, but it hasn’t quite sunk in yet. I can do the A-levels that I want to do and above that. Again, it hasn’t quite sunk in. I’m shaking.”
He is going on to study maths, further maths, physics and chemistry in the sixth form and although he thinks he will pursue a career in one of these subjects later in life, he isn’t quite sure yet.
Georgie Pinckney also got all 9s and she said: “I’m really pleased. I thought I wasn’t going to do that well, definitely not. I was hoping to do well but not quite straight 9s.”
She will study biology, chemistry, English literature and maths A-levels.
“I was thinking science but I chose English literature just to keep my options open,” she said, when discussing her post-school future.
Maddy Leek got six 9s and three 8s and said: “I am so pleased. I’m just really relieved because I’ve been really worried that I didn’t do what I wanted to do but I think everything has gone how I wanted it to go.”
She is planning to study philosophy, politics, history and sociology next year and is considering pursuing a career in journalism.
Maddy is going on holiday to France today so she is planning to celebrate her fine results abroad.
Francesca Ramachander achieved three 9s and six 8s in her GCSEs and she was feeling relieved.
“Yeah it was really good,” she said. “I definitely did better in French than I thought I would.”
She plans to go on and study biology, chemistry, maths and psychology and she is considering reading medicine at university, but she is keeping her options open for now.
She is off to London to celebrate her great results.
Ethan Knight got all the grades he needed, including five 9s.
He will study maths, further maths, physics and economics next year.
He said: “I hope to go to a top university. I’m not 100% sure what I want to do yet but it will probably be something like engineering.”
Head of year 11 at The Downs Sarah Wilding said: “I’m feeling very excited. I’m really happy to see so many smiling happy faces. They’ve done amazingly.
“It’s obviously been a tough couple of years but this year group have just been absolutely phenomenal with the way they’ve dealt with it all.
“They’ve had their heads down with every mock and every exam that came up.
“They’ve done so well and it’s just a testament to them and all their hard work and the amazing personalities and individuals that are in this year group. They really are a special year group.
“I am so proud. I’ve had them since the end of year 7 and to see them grow to the people they are today and to see some of the results some of them have got, not just the high achievers who we have got such a long list, but the ones who have just done well for themselves and have exceeded their expected grades. Just some amazing results.”
Head teacher Chris Prosser said: “Throughout their school careers, the students in this year group have always demonstrated our values and excelled in everything they have done.
“They have been a huge credit to the school. I am so pleased they achieved the exam results they deserve. My staff and I could not be more proud of them.
“They have faced up to all the challenges of the pandemic with immense resilience, determination and courage.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of staff who have worked so hard to teach and support the students in this year group.
“It is also a time to celebrate the really successful partnership we have forged with our students’ parents and carers. These results are a real team effort.”
10.45: St Bartholomew's School – report by Robbie Stelling
This morning the students of St Bartholomew’s are celebrating record-breaking results.
The school have achieved outstanding results once again, despite all the challenges associated with the pandemic.
42 per cent of all GCSE grades were between 9 and 7 while over 86% of students gained at least a grade 4 in both English and mathematics, ensuring they can successfully progress onto further study.
Miriam Cooper, Sophie Jenner, James Gibbons, Mohammad Jaffer, Andayi Owain Bevan,
Matteo Di Alberto, Anvi Prashar, Izzy Quesada-Getgood and Adi Kamath all received eight or more GCSEs at grade 9 – a truly outstanding achievement.
Sophie studied English, physics, chemistry, biology, maths, further maths, French, food technology, film studies and drama and achieved an incredible eight 9s and two 8s.
“I was really nervous coming in this morning, I’m so happy now,” Sophie said. “I’m going to spend some time celebrating with my family and then I’m going to go out with friends, hopefully we’ll grab a nice meal.
“I’m staying here for sixth form, I’m studying drama, classics, maths and further maths.
“I’m looking forward to it, it’s going to be good.
“I’d quite like to go into drama and the industry, wherever that may take me.
“I’m also really interested in maths and classics, I might do something else on the side, who knows.”
James studied English, physics, chemistry, biology, maths, further maths, history, geography, German and computer science.
“I’m most proud of my maths and science results, I got nines in those,” James said.
“I’m just pleased that all the hard work has paid off, I’m really happy.
“I was nervous this morning, I’m glad to have the results now and to see that it’s all worked out.
“I’m off to meet my friends, we’ll discuss our results and celebrate.
“I’m staying here for A-levels, I’m doing maths, further maths, physics and economics.
“I’m not sure what I’ll do when I’m older but I think I’ll do maths or science at university.”
Headteacher, Julia Mortimore, said: “I am exceptionally proud of our students who, after two challenging years in which they remained focused, positive and committed to their studies, have been awarded with the grades they fully deserve.
“It’s a result of lots of hard work and some excellent support.
“We congratulate every one of them, they are an exceptional cohort of students who should rightfully be proud of their results.
“I would also like to thank and recognise all the excellent support and teaching provided by all the staff at St Bart’s that has enabled these fantastic results and makes St Bart’s the outstanding school it truly is.”
10.30am: John O'Gaunt, Hungerford
There have been tears of joy at John O’Gaunt in Hungerford this morning, as students picked up their GCSE results.
Tigan Henderson said she was “absolutely thrilled” with her results.
She’s now going to study science A-levels at St Johns in Marlborough.
Still shaking Victoria Jaworska revealed she had achieved all grade 9s and 8s.
She said it had been really difficult with Covid but is delighted with her results.
She now wants to go on to study sciences.
Aaron Smith and Mikey Hughes were the first through the door at John O’Gaunt.
Mikey was relieved when he saw his results and said he will go on to study social care, while Aaron is going to do a TV editing course.
Vice principal Corinne Walker said it was “all going ok”, adding there had been “lots of tears of joy”.
“This is a stepping stone and we feel they are well prepared for the next step,” she added. “As a school we have done well with a significant improvement at the top end. But also on other areas such as students with special needs.
“We thank the staff for all they have done for the students. It’s been tough for everyone but we thank them for their dedication and commitment.”
Jessica Archer and Katie Griffiths were a bit tearful but happy after “doing very well”.
Jessica wants to go on to study food sciences, biology and psychology, while Katie is off to do English literature, biology, politics and religious studies.
Katie’s mum Emma Griffiths said: “I’m just thrilled to bits with the results she deserves. It’s been a tough journey. There’s been no let up as we didn’t know there would even be any exams.”
10.15am: Park House – report by Dan Cooper
Park House School in Newbury is celebrating some great results for its students this morning.
Louise Kervella, from Newbury, was overjoyed after achieving a staggering 12 9s, meaning she got the highest grade possible in every single exam she sat.
She said: “It’s just amazing. I can’t really believe it.”
She will stay on at Park House to study her A-levels.
Meanwhile, Samuel Knight achieved an impressive eleven 9s and one 7.
“I’m so happy and I just really didn’t expect it,” he said. “I’ll be celebrating tonight. I’ll probably go out for a nice meal with the family. The hard work is done and now I can relax a bit.”
Samuel said he will stay on at Park House to study A-levels in mathematics, further mathematics, physics and computing.
9.30am: St Gabriel's – report by Sarah Bosley
“Smashed it - again!” That was the message from the elated principal of St Gabriel’s School in Newbury this morning (Thursday).
There were a host of impressive performances for Ricki Smith and his school to celebrate, with at least 20 per cent of all pupils achieving 9 grades or more at level 9 or 8.
And 60 per cent of all passes were at levels 9-7.
“We are delighted to share the outstanding success of all our Year 11s as they received their
GCSE results, smashing the outcome of what has been a difficult two years for them,” Mr Smith said.
“It is important to recognise the impact that the pandemic has had on the education of this cohort of pupils at St Gabriel’s, and in a wider context nationally, as they have come through school closures, illness and uncertainty to be rewarded with a truly impressive set of results.
“We are excited about our Year 11s returning to St Gabriel’s for the next stage of their educational journey in the Sixth Form.
“This year’s Year 11 have smashed it – again!”
Student Sophie was celebrating after achieving seven grade 9s, two grade 8s and two grade 7s.
“I am very happy,” she said.
She will be going on to study A-Levels at St Bartholomew’s School and will be celebrating by going out for dinner tonight.
Friend Zara, who also achieved all grade 9, 8 and 7s, said the year group hadn’t known what to expect from exams this year.
“But it was really good and I’m very pleased,” she added.
She will also be celebrating tonight by going out for dinner, before preparing to go on to Queen Mary’s College to study for her A-levels in maths, biology and chemistry.
Isla, who is also heading to St Bart’s to do A-levels in September, said she was “really pleased” with her results.
Poppy, who achieved all grades 9 and 8s, with a 7 in Greek, added: “I’m feeling pretty good; I think I did quite well.”
She also plans to go on to study A-levels.
Scarlett said she had been panicking all morning, adding: “I was very nervous, but I’m happy now.
“I was very surprised and I’m very relieved now.”
Fellow pupil Selina said she was feeling “very happy”.
“I was very nervous; we didn’t know what to expect in the first exam but it all turned out good.”
All of the girls will be going on to study A-levels in September
“All of the pupils deserve huge credit and praise for what they have achieved,” Mr Smith added.
“This is a cohort that has shown their ability to endure stoically, prosper, and flourish, when things have been tough throughout. Their resilience, community-spirit and sense of fun has been a lesson to us all.
“As ever, this year will be remembered for many reasons. However, it is the educational growth and level of achievement shown by these St Gabriel’s pupils, and the professionalism and care shown by an outstanding staff, coupled with the support of parents that will be my abiding memory.”
