Schools and pupils celebrate top results

Pupils in schools across the area have been celebrating their GCSE results today.

Ormiston Sudbury Academy saw 46 per cent of pupils achieve at least five A*-C grades including English and maths, a 13 point increase since the school became an academy.

“The proportion of top grades also rose – with 37 per cent A* or A grades - demonstrating some exceptional performances from a number of students,” said principal Caroline Wilson.

“I would like to congratulate all our Year 11 students on their results and I am delighted to report a further increase in our GCSE results this year.

“I am extremely proud of our continued progress and the commitment of all our staff, students and parents.”

Joe Hinshelwood was the top performer achieving nine A*s three As and a B, deciding to stay on at the academy’s Sixth Form to study history, chemistry and physics.

It was a double celebration for fellow pupil Olivia King who was celebrating her 16th birthday.

Olivia achieved three As six Bs and a C, planning to go to Colchester Sixth Form College to study biology, chemistry and English literature.

“It’s a lot better than I was hoping for,” she said. “It’s amazing, I’m very, very happy.”

Thomas Gainsborough School in Great Cornard saw a drop in its results this year with 54 per cent of pupils attaining five or more GCSE passes at A*-C, down from last year’s record of 60 per cent.

However, twenty five students achieved more than five passes at A*-A grades.

Headteacher Wayne Lloyd said: Whilst we are disappointed with the headline figure we are not altogether surprised as different year groups have different profiles. There have been some exceptional performances this year and we are delighted with the performances of a great many of our students.

“The number of students attaining A* and A grades has risen significantly and it is a fitting reward for their hard work.

“We expect high standards at TGS and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the highest possible outcomes for all our students that will see standards rise again in the future.”

One of the school’s star performers was Rory Perkins who achieved nine A*s and an A.

“I don’t know what to feel yet,” he said. “It’s not quite real.”

Rory will be heading off to Colchester Grammar School to study maths, further maths, physics and religious studies.

Top of the class was Hedingham School, where 63 per cent of students achieved five or more A*-C grades including Maths and English, with 99 per cent of students attaining five or more A*-G passes.

There were several outstanding sets of results including Lorna Wright who gained 6 A*s and 3 A grades and Dylan Thomas who received 5 A*s and 4 As.

Headteacher John Panayi said: “I am very pleased with the GCSE results gained by our students and wish to congratulate them for their commitment and hard work to attain their good examination outcomes.

“A record number of students in this cohort exceeded target grade and a special mention must go to science who achieved outstanding results.

“Within a changing examination landscape where grade boundaries and patterns of entry have altered, it is very good to note that Hedingham School has maintained high expectations for our students which is reflected in their results.

“This consolidates our standing as a good school.

“I would also like to thank all staff for their tremendous work to ensure the success of their students, and parents and governors for their continued support.”

Students and staff at Stour Valley Community School were celebrating above-expected exam results.

Fifty-four per cent of pupils achieved five or more A*-C grades including English and maths, a rise of eight percentage points from

2014.

There was significant attainment in maths with best-ever results of 73 per cent and English with 66 per cent

A*-C grades.

Notable successes amongst students included Will Baker, Chloe Megeath and Bethany Strellis who achieved 9 A*-A grades each.

Christine Inchley, Headteacher, said: “The progress made by students at Stour Valley continues to be impressive at all levels and these excellent results are a reflection of the hard work and dedication of students and staff at the school.”