Catholic schools celebrate GCSE success

The GCSE exam results are just in - and schools around the UK are sending in their results. We don't have space to give each school a separate story - with all those great pictures - but we will be publishing the texts together as they come in. Congratulations everyone!

Academy of St Nicholas Garston, Liverpool

Today (Thursday 24 August), students and their families came into the academy to collect the all-important envelopes which contained their results. The Academy of St Nicholas, which is part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, acknowledges the challenges faced by this cohort of students, missing a huge proportion of year 9 and impacting upon their preparation for the rigours of GCSE studies. Despite this, these students have worked incredibly hard to achieve excellent personal outcomes.

Olamide Adeleke performed particularly well across all subjects achieving grade 8s in science, engineering, business and religious education. Olamide also achieved grade 7s in maths and English because of her commitment and dedication to her studies.

Hard-working and dedicated student, Alan Korshid, performed above his targets in many subjects achieving grade 8s in English language, English literature, and religious education. He has also achieved grade 7s in combined science and computer science.

Arish Arulsabesan is another student who has consistently achieved above his target grade due to his commitment to his studies. Arish has worked tirelessly to achieve grade 8s in mathematics and combined science whilst performing consistently well in all subject areas.

The above students, and many others, will continue their studies at All Saints Sixth Form College in September. The sixth form i located on the same campus as the academy. Many students have overcome personal challenges to achieve excellent results. Ethan Newton is just one of these students. Despite significant personal obstacles he faced, he has shown great resilience to achieve positive outcomes across all subjects. Others will embark on apprenticeships or join the world of work.

An excellent work ethic, coupled with an academic support programme, has ensured that Kaden Roberts has performed above targets in almost every subject and as a result he will now progress to study and train in his chosen field of construction.

Headteacher, Mr Gary Lloyd, commented: "I am enormously proud of this year's cohort. To see a continued improvement in exam results is testament to their hard work and dedication during their time here at the academy.

"I would like to thank our students, families and our superb team of teachers for their commitment to learning at The Academy of St Nicholas. I look forward to seeing some familiar faces in September as they join All Saints Sixth Form College and begin their A-level and BTEC journeys."

LINK: http://theacademyofstnicholas.org.uk/

St Benedict's Ealing

This year St Benedict's GCSE candidates have achieved the best ever set of GCSE results at the school in a year when the full GCSE standard has once again been applied. 42.8% of all exams taken were graded 9-8 (A*), and 69.3% were graded 9-7 (A*/A). Eleven students achieved straight 9-8 (A*) grades, and thirty-nine of our students achieved straight 9-7 (A*/A grades).

GCSE results were strong across all subjects and were exceptionally good in History, Chemistry, Physics, French, Maths and Music.

The Headmaster, Andrew Johnson, said: "I am delighted that St Benedict's GCSE students have been so successful. They have worked hard to achieve these outstanding results and are a credit to their families, and to their teachers, who have given their dedicated support throughout".

Ellesmere Port Catholic High School, Cheshire West

Ellesmere Port Catholic High School, Cheshire West, part of Our Lady Help of Christians Trust, has had some fantastic GCSE results.

Headteacher, Caroline Vile, said: "We are very proud of all our students who received their GCSE results today at EPCHS. Despite everything they have had to cope with, students have shown determination, commitment and resilience over the last two years with many students achieving excellent results. Our students will go on to do great things and I would like to congratulate all of them on their achievements, as well as thanking our teaching and support staff for their unwavering dedication, hard work and commitment to the students at the school, not forgetting the amazing parental support that so many have needed over the last 24 months.

As much as we are obviously proud of each and every one of our students, there are some students who deserve an extra special mention -

Madeline Marsland - 9 in Art and Design, 9-8 in Combined Science, 9 in History, 8 in Maths (Higher), 8 in Religious Studies

George Clarke - 9 in Maths (Higher)

Curtis Earlam - 8 in Business Studies, Geography, Maths (Higher)

James Moray - 8 in Biology (Higher), Chemistry (Higher), English Language, English Literature, Geography

Renz Ordoyo - 8 in Chemistry (Higher), Physics (Higher), Religious Studies, Spanish (Higher)

Archie Boden - 9 in English Language and 8 in English Literature

Sarah Williams - 8 in History and English Literature

Sean Te - 9 in Spanish (Higher), 8 in English Literature, 8 in Science

St Bonaventure's Forest Gate

St. Bonaventure's Catholic boys' secondary school in Forest Gate, East London, is delighted to announce brilliant performance in the GCSE examinations, surpassing last year's results, especially in English, Maths, Science and RE. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the commitment, tenacity, and exceptional instruction provided within the school.

Headteacher Chris McCormack expressed his satisfaction with this year's GCSE results: "Well done to our students on achieving a great set of results. Their time in school has been unique as we all faced challenging times in education with the pandemic. Working together with our staff, our students have never wavered in their commitment to their studies. They deserve all their successes after all the hard work they have put in over the past few years."

The results show continued improvement - not just from 2019 but year on year for the last 6 years. 84% of students received a Good Pass in English and Maths (4+). 69% of students received a Strong Pass in English and Maths (5+). 32.5% of students received 9-7 grades and 71.9% received 9-5 grades; this has increased by 9.5% and 13.9% respectively, since 2019. Our attainment 8 is our highest ever. The strong results in a wide range of subject areas reflect the broad and balanced, holistic education that St Bonaventure's delivers.

"I think that the education at St Bon's is top-notch, all the teachers really care what you get and push you to get the high grades." - Ify. He received two 9s, one 8 and five 7s.

"I feel relieved and proud of my GCSE results. Big shoutout to my parents for being my biggest cheerleaders and my teachers for believing in me even when I doubted myself. This is just the beginning, and I'm excited to see what the future holds." Khyle. He received six 9s, one 7 and one 6.

Head of Year 11, Mr Hayes was impressed by the hard work and perseverance of the students throughout the academic year, "It has been a pleasure working with this group of students. Their commitment to their studies has been first class and they fully deserve everything they have achieved. I am super proud of all of them!"

St Bonaventure School acknowledges and appreciates the invaluable contributions of its dedicated teachers and staff, who consistently go above and beyond to provide an exceptionally well-rounded education that empowers students to excel academically, embrace their passions, and make a positive impact as good citizens in the community. Additionally, the school administration extends gratitude to the parents and families whose support has been instrumental in fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence.

LINK - www.stbons.org/

St John Bosco Arts College, Croxteth, Liverpool

Earlier today students at St John Bosco Arts College collected their GCSE results as they prepare to embark on the next stage in their education journey. There was excitement in the air as students were able to see all their hard work come to fruition. Students arrived at 8am and were eager to celebrate their achievements with staff and peers.

Overall, the results aligned with expectations with some fantastic success stories.

Alexsandra Stanek who plans to continue their studies at St John Bosco, achieved fantastic results, including a grade 9 in Spanish and five 8s including sciences and English. In September, they will begin studying biology, art and physics at A-level.

Endurance Oka Inomwan also plans to continue their studies at St John Bosco and was delighted to achieve six grades above a 7, including Spanish, maths, English and science.

Macie Wheeler achieved an inspiring set of results, including 7s in English and history and a distinction* in textiles and has also decided to continue their studies at St John Bosco and will be heading into Year 12 in the autumn.

A large proportion of students have decided to remain at the school to complete their A-levels, which is undoubtedly a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment to school has worked so hard to create.

St John Bosco's sixth form offers a wide range of A-level subjects and applied general, including law and psychology.

For those students who have chosen to pursue alternative pathways, they will begin working towards their futures by undergoing apprenticeships and attending other local colleges.

Christina Okafor, who achieved an amazing four 9s, three 8s and a distinction*, was thrilled with her results. She said: "It is a relief to finally get my results, and I am so happy about the grades I got in the important subjects I need for A-level".

Headteacher, Mr Darren Gidman, said: "With immense joy and pride, we gather today to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Year 11 students as they receive their results. At St John Bosco Arts College, our shared vision and values have guided us on this journey, inspiring us to flourish in faith, hope, and love.

"Our mission is to provide an ambitious Catholic education that lays strong foundations for our students and communities to thrive and become the best versions of themselves. As we come together today, we witness the tangible outcomes of their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to their studies.

"To our Year 11 students, you have embraced our mission wholeheartedly, and today we celebrate your accomplishments. You have demonstrated that with dedication, perseverance, and the support of a loving community, you can surpass your incredible potential.

"Congratulations to you all. We wish you the best of luck for the future."

LINK: www.stjohnboscoartscollege.com

Academy of St Francis of Assisi, Kensington, Liverpool

Students from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi (ASFA), Kensington, returned to school today (Thursday 24 August) to collect their GCSE exam results. Emotions were high as students opened their envelopes amongst family, friends and staff.

The academy, which is part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, saw students achieve a wide range of results opening the door to the next stage of their education.

With over 50 different languages spoken in the school, it is no surprise that students performed well in these subjects, with Bonsu Williams Osie and David Amos both gaining a grade 9 in Italian. Jan Russel Balanes achieved a 9 in Spanish and Sila Yoztyurk achieved a grade 9 in Turkish.

Many students will go on to study A-level and BTEC courses, with some heading to All Saints Sixth Form College in Garston.

There were some notable successes such as head girl, Annaelle Mbolokele, who achieved 10 GCSEs including eight 9s in biology, chemistry, English literature, English language, French, history, sociology, religious studies and two 8s in maths and physics.

She is going to study biology, chemistry, mathematics, and psychology at A-level. Annaelle said: "I am speechless at my results. I worked really hard, and I am so happy my hard work paid off. I really want to do something with STEM in the future and possibly a career in medicine."

Precious Joda received 10 GCSEs with seven 6s and three 7s. She is planning to study the sciences at A-levels.

Niota Mupingu obtained 10 GCSEs including a grade 9 in French and a Level 2 distinction in performing arts.

Leila Ahmed achieved a 9 in mathematics along with three 7s in biology, chemistry and physics, allowing her to proceed to study maths and science at A-level.

Head boy, Mazen Daham achieved A* for Arabic A-level, and 10 GCSEs including 8s for religious studies and sociology, two 7s, two 6s and two 5s. He plans to study science at A-level and hopes to become a doctor in the future.

He said: "Thank you very much for the support. I am excited to see what the future holds."

Fellow student, Mariam Suleiman gained 10 GCSEs including four 7s and six 6s. She also plans to study science at A level.

Hassan Askar gained 10 GCSEs with three 7s in Science, and 6s in maths and geography.

Students also performed particularly well in various BTEC Tech awards with high grades in drama, sports studies and ICT.

Stefan Cornea and Thomas McAdam achieved Level 2 distinction in ICT. Muneer Nagi and Xander Heaton gained a Level 2 distinction in sports studies.

Headteacher, Jo Leech, said: "Although it is for the last time, it was wonderful to see our Year 11 students back in school. GCSE results day can be a stressful time for everyone, but today's results prove that despite everything, our students have shown dedication and resilience throughout their journey with us. Well done to ASFA's class of 2023 and we wish you all the best for the next chapter of your lives."

LINK: www.allsaintsmat.org.uk

Our Lady's Catholic High School Hackney, East London

Students at Our Lady's Catholic High School, in Hackney are celebrating an outstanding achievement, as they have surpassed the GCSE results of 2019 and 2022, and setting new high standards for academic excellence. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the unwavering dedication and support of the school's compassionate and talented staff, as well as the relentless hard work of students.

Andy English, Headteacher expressed his delight at the students' achievements, describing the outcomes as a reflection of their resilience providing an affirmation of Ofsted's view that our students achieve well and that this is reflected in their examinations results.

Impressively, 70% of all grades were at grade 5 or above with nearly a quarter of all grades reaching grade 7 or higher. Other notable results include 36% of students secured at least one grade 7 or higher. 84% of students secured grade 4 or above in English, and three-quarters of our students achieved grade 4+ plus in maths.

There were also fantastic outcomes across the range of subjects: RE 75% grade 4 and above, History 76% grade 5 and above and French 83% securing grade 4 or above with nearly 30% achieving grade 7 or above. Madame Robinson, Head of Languages, is especially proud of Juanita and Alessia who both achieved 9 in French. Le français, c'est facile!

Reflecting on these outstanding results, Virginia Lopes, Head of Year 11 at Our Lady's Catholic High School, expressed her excitement and pride, stating, "The anticipation has been building, and today we finally have the privilege to celebrate the great achievements of our students. Their hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence have paid off in the most exceptional way imaginable. As the Head of Year, I am immensely proud to congratulate each and every student on their results."

Student Amy, who stands among the highest-achieving students with 6 grade 9 passes and 2 grade 8 passes, expressed her joy regarding her results by stating: "I am really happy with my results. I hope I can do well in the future."

Crina Lisa, another accomplished student with grade 9 & and 8 passes, said: "The results have exceeded my expectations! I am grateful for the unwavering support of my teachers at Our Lady's Catholic High School. My hard work really helped me achieve these results."

Established in 1904, Our Lady's Catholic High School is well known for upholding high standards. The school's exceptional teaching, emphasis on positive relationships, and cultivation of a culture of ambitious goals have contributed to its esteemed reputation. This approach has empowered students to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits.

The School has upheld its 'Good' rating from OFSTED. The 2023 report highlighted the students' commendable achievements, clearly reflected in their examination results.

Our Lady's Catholic High School is an esteemed educational institution that takes pride in its rich history and commitment to providing quality education. Established in 1904 by the Servite Sisters, our school is dedicated to offering young women in Hackney an exceptional learning experience.

As an institution with a rich history and a forward-looking approach, Our Lady's Catholic High School continues to evolve and adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of our students. We are proud of our heritage and the legacy of providing quality education to young women in Hackney. With a focus on Servite values and a dedication to nurturing each child, we strive to create a supportive and inspiring educational journey for every student who walks through our doors.

St James' Catholic High School Colindale, Barnet, North London

Despite it being the case (and widely reported in the media) that results nationally have been revised down from last year, to continue the process of bringing results back in line with pre-pandemic levels, Anthony Ellul, Headteacher, is delighted to report that results at St James' have improved from those achieved in 2022. For a cohort that has missed over half of an academic year of in school teaching due to Covid, this is a fantastic effort and is testament to both our pupils' hard work and also the expertise and dedication of our outstanding staff.

Headline data will be published on our school website once we know, but we can report the following:

Pupils' Average Grade - Up on 2022 and now over 5

Pupils Achieving a 5+ in English and Maths - Up on 2022 and above 50%

Pupils results above national at all measures

We are very pleased with these results, however we absolutely recognise that not every pupil has met the key threshold of a 4+ in English and Maths. While almost 75% of our pupils have met this threshold, not all have, and as a Catholic school we are committed to continue to support these pupils. We will be welcoming many of them back into our Sixth Form in September where they will be able to access the appropriate post 16 programme of study.

Head of Year 11, Mr John Knibb, said: "It's been an absolute pleasure and honour to see our Year 11 students develop not only academically, but also into respectable young adults. We hope to see many of them return to our Sixth Form and pursue something that they have great passion for. Regardless, whichever path you take after your GCSEs, St James' will always be here as a helping hand and a stepping stone to your favoured endeavours."

"We are delighted that all of the hard work our Year 11 pupils put into their studies has paid off. We are so proud of them and we look forward to seeing what they can achieve with us in our Sixth Form." ~ Sara Magee, Senior Assistant Headteacher

St James' continues to be rated 'Good' by OFSTED with an Outstanding Section 48 report from the Diocese of Westminster.

St. James' Catholic High School is a voluntary-aided, mixed-sex educational institution dedicated to providing a nurturing and intellectually enriching environment for pupils aged 11 to 18 years. Founded in 1934 by the Dominican sisters, the school carries a rich legacy of excellence in education and character development. Located in Colindale, Barnet, North London, St James' Catholic High School operates from a single, well-equipped site that serves as the cornerstone of our educational community. With a strong commitment to fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth, our school endeavours to create well-rounded individuals equipped to excel in all aspects of life.

Cardinal Pole Catholic School, Hackney

Commemorates an Academic Year of Triumph with excellent GCSE Results Cardinal Pole Catholic School, in Hackney, is thrilled to announce another set of excellent results achieved by its students in this year's GCSE examinations. This impressive outcome is a testament to the students' perseverance, hard work, and the excellent support provided by the school's leadership and teaching staff. This achievement comes as another significant milestone for the school, following its impressive set of results in A-Levels last week, and the well-deserved shortlisting for the Secondary School of the Year in the 2023 TES Awards. Headteacher, Adam Hall, extended congratulations to the school's students for their GCSE results, stating: 'I am extraordinarily proud of our students. They have worked exceptionally hard throughout the year, and they've risen to the challenge with great resilience and a focused desire to succeed. I wish every one of our students the very best for their futures'. Students at Cardinal Pole have achieved outstanding grades across various subjects.

Key statistics are as follows:

English grades remained impressive with 80% of students securing a 4+ and 70% securing this in Maths. 68% students secured this measure in both Maths and English.

The breadth and strength of our curriculum was once again demonstrated with outstanding results in our Art, 3D Design and Drama classes, each achieving 89%, 88% and 76% 4+ respectively.

Results this year showed some exceptional individual performances with 25 students being awarded Grade 9s. Particular mention should go to Mollie Hoyle who achieved 7 Grade 9s and Leo Muhibzada who achieved 6 Grade 9s alongside 3 Grade 8s.

Numerous departments secured the top grades for their students with a quarter of RE students achieving Grades 7-9. This was also achieved by 20% of English students and 19% of both Science and French.

The students were delighted with their results, including Mollie Hoyle who stands among the highest-achieving students with (7 grade 9s) expressed her joy regarding her results by stating: "I worked hard for my GCSE exams, but I couldn't have done it without the incredible teachers at Cardinal Pole. Their constant support and additional help made all the difference."

Leo Muhibzada, another accomplished student with mainly 9 and 8 grades said, "I am extremely happy with my GCSE results! It hasn't been the easiest year. but Cardinal Pole provided me with the tools and resources I needed to excel. The teachers went the extra mile to support me, and I am truly grateful for their unwavering dedication."

Lola Alabi, Head of Year 11, was delighted with the student results, commenting: "I am elated by the results of our students. The standard in which students perform truly reflects their work ethic and dedication to their academic success. Grades do not define them however, I am extremely proud of what they have achieved."

The remarkable achievements in the GCSE examinations highlight Cardinal Pole Catholic School's dedication to offering a well-rounded education that empowers students to excel academically and guides them on a path to opportunity, aspiration, and reward, founded on Catholic values.

St John Plessington Catholic College, Bebington

It was a morning of joy for those at St John Plessington Catholic College, Bebington, today for GCSE results day. Year 11 students were delighted to be back at school with their peers to receive their long-awaited GCSE results.

This year, following the pandemic, GCSE exams were sat under normal conditions for the second time and students have had to deal with the shift back to pre-pandemic arrangements and grading systems. Despite this, students at St John Plessington have performed well across all curriculum areas.

Staff and students alike were delighted with this year's results. Many staff members attended school this morning to share in the success and achievements of the students.

There have been many success stories this year.

Julia excelled across her subjects, receiving five grade 9s, two grade 8s, two grade 7s, and a grade 6. She is planning to study maths, computer science, and further maths at A-level.

Achieving four grade 8s, three grade 7s, two grade 6s and a grade 5, Peter performed excellently. At sixth form, Peter will study physics, biology, and maths.

As a result of his hard work, Isaac achieved two grade 8s, three 7s, a 6, three 5s, and a distinction* and will be moving on to undertake history, biology, and chemistry at A-level.

Noah is another student who received great results: three grade 7s, five grade 6s, and two grade 5s. Noah is looking forward to studying history, geography and chemistry at A-level.

Following their GCSEs, students will be moving on to further education, studying for A-levels and BTECs, with all of the above students, and many other Year 11s, choosing to remain at St John Plessington and enter Year 12 as part of its sixth form.

Mr Peadar McLoughlin, headteacher of the school, said: "It has been a fantastic morning at St John Plessington Catholic College, celebrating the achievements of our Year 11 students. During their time here, they have shown so much dedication and it has most definitely paid off. We are all so proud of them, they are a credit to our school and Trust.

"A huge congratulations to all our students receiving results today. I am looking forward to seeing many familiar faces in sixth form."

The Bebington-based school is part of the Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust which also includes St Joseph's Catholic Primary, St Bernard's RC Primary School, St Mary's Catholic College, Our Lady of Pity RC Primary School, and St Augustine's Catholic Primary in Runcorn.

St John Plessington Catholic College is situated on Old Chester Road, Bebington. The SJP community is a place where all are respected, celebrated and encouraged to fulfil their true potential.

LINK: www.hfcmat.com/

See more results here: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/47875