The Barclay School in Stevenage says it is celebrating its best GCSE results for four years, with 53 per cent of students achieving grades A* to C including the equivalent 4-9 grades in English and maths.
Under the new system, 65 per cent of pupils got a grade 4 or higher in English language or literature, with 64 per cent achieving the same in maths.
The school said these good results were reflected across the subject range, with particular highlights in biology (98 per cent A*-C), chemistry and physics (91 per cent A*-C), religious education (87 per cent A*-C, 43 per cent A*-A), physical education (86 per cent A*-C) and geography (31 per cent A*-A).
Overall, students achieved 199 A*-A (or equivalent) grades.
William Clarke achieved a full set of As and above, including five A*s and a 9, with Joe Newton and Gage Deitsch all getting straights As and three A*s apiece. Sarangy Sathyan also got straight As and equivalent, including two A*s.
Fourteen students achieved at least three As, four students achieved the top grade 9 in English and two repeated that feat in maths.
Headteacher Mark Allchorn said: “These exciting results reflect the hard work and determination of our students and teachers.
“We knew this year of new exam courses and grading systems would be challenging, but I am delighted that Barclay students have bucked the trend and produced such fine results. The school looks forward to welcoming many back to our sixth form.”
Regarding overall results, a statement issued on behalf of the Stevenage secondary schools headteachers said: “This year there have been many changes in how students in Year 11 are assessed in their GCSE examinations.
“For English and maths, grades have moved from A*-G to 9-1. Examinations have become more rigorous and controlled assessment is no longer part of the English exam.
“This summer is the first time students sat the new English and maths GCSE. Throughout the year schools across the country have struggled to predict and assess what students will achieve as no grade boundaries were in place. The new system has led to confusion for students, parents and schools alike.
“With these national changes, year-on-year comparisons of attainment are not appropriate and headline progress measures will be unavailable until the official performance tables are released.
“As headteachers in Stevenage, we continue to work hard in our own schools and together as a family of schools, to raise achievement and improve the life chances of every single student in our care. This year we want to celebrate the individual success of each and every student.”
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