Catholic schools celebrate record 2024 exam results

Photo by Andy Holmes on Unsplash

The long-awaited school exam results are finally through, and a record number of students are celebrating excellent A-level and BTEC grades. The following schools - published in the order they arrived - have sent in their results:

Ealing: St Benedict's School

St Benedict's School in Ealing is delighted to report an outstanding set of results from this year's A Level students. The A level results from this year's cohort continue the strong upward trend in public exam results seen at St Benedict's over recent years. Almost half of exams taken (49.8%) were awarded an A*or A grade and 83.2% were awarded A*, A or B - the best ever achieved in a year when the full A level grading standards have been applied.

The future study paths of their leavers are many and varied, from Medicine, Economics and Maths to Fine Art, Geography, Spanish and Sociology.

The vast majority of students are heading to their preferred choice university destinations, including 88% to top 10 institutions and those which form part of the Russell Group: Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Durham and Imperial College, London, with one student going much further afield to study Business & Economics at the University of California, San Diego.

Amongst a number of notable individual achievements, Lucy B attained two A*s and two As and will study Medicine at Newcastle University, Charlie A gained three A*s to study Economics at the University of Bristol, Kara I achieved three A*s and will study Geography at the University of Manchester and Sam B has been offered the rare opportunity of an Atkins Degree Apprenticeship with the University of Warwick.

Speaking about his results A Level student, Charlie A said, "I was delighted with my A Level results today! All the hard work has paid off and I am so grateful to all my teachers for their support. I really could not have done it without them."

Headmaster, Joe Smith, commented, "I am absolutely delighted for our young people who have achieved these superb A level grades, the best in the school's history under normal assessment circumstances. Our 2024 leavers have worked extremely hard and deserve all their success. For half the grades to be at A*or A, and 83% at A*, A or B, is the mark of an academically very serious school indeed. Enormous credit must also go to our dedicated and brilliant team of teachers, and all the staff who support our young people, as well as the students' parents and families for their support of them during their studies. As you can imagine, we are over the moon!"

The results convey a long tradition of academic success at St Benedict's. The recent ISI inspection report, published earlier this year (January 2024), underpins the school's careers guidance arrangements as an 'area of significant strength' which relates to the preparation of their students for their lives beyond school.

For more information visit: www.stbenedicts.org.uk/

Liverpool: St John Bosco Arts College

Earlier Thursday morning the school welcomed the class of 2024 and their families as they eagerly collected envelopes containing their results.

Among those celebrating their results was Layla O'Connell who achieved an A* in English literature, an A criminology, a B in history and an A for her extended project qualification (EPQ). Layla will join the University of Liverpool to study for her undergraduate degree in English literature with history.

Another student delighted by their results was Jack Bishop who achieved an A in criminology and a double distinction* in business.

Head girl, Jasmine Keeley, will be heading to the University of Derby to study sports therapy. Charlotte Neild will attend the University of Chester in September to study nutrition after achieving a B in chemistry, a B in biology and a B in maths. Fellow student, Chloe Baker, was delighted to discover she had secured her place at Liverpool Hope University after achieving a distinction* in psychology, an A in criminology and an A in art. Chloe will study criminology. Annmaria Tome opted to pursue a degree apprenticeship which will see her work for Caterpillar in mechanical engineering.

This year, the school reported the highest number of students receiving offers from Russel Group Universities, including University of York, University of Manchester, and the University of Liverpool.

Mrs Charlotte Lyon, assistant headteacher and head of sixth form, was at the school to greet students. She said: "It is always such a pleasure to be a part of results day and share in all the joy and happiness that comes with it.

"As a school, our job is to prepare our students for the next phase in their lives, whether they decide to remain in education, enter the world of work, or complete an apprenticeship while gaining real-world experience. We are immensely proud of each of them and wish them the best of luck for whatever comes next."

Headteacher, Mr Darren Gidman, said: "Today, we have come together to celebrate the exceptional achievements of our sixth form students as they receive their results. As a community driven by our vision and values, we embrace this moment with a deep sense of gratitude, pride, and anticipation for the future. We celebrate the accomplishments of those students who have secured places at prestigious universities. Their dedication, intellectual curiosity, and pursuit of excellence have been truly outstanding.

"Equally commendable are our students who have chosen apprenticeships, as they demonstrate the value of practical skills and the ability to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields. A massive congratulations to the class of 2024. We wish you the very best of luck for the future."

For more information visit: www.stjohnboscoartscollege.com/school/

Coventry: Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School

Students are celebrating after securing places with top universities or on degree apprenticeships across a wide variety of subjects.

A number of students also graduated from Cardinal Wiseman's School of Sanctuary foundation programme, including Emir and Hajar, who will both be studying law at Russell group universities. The provision is for pupils and families who have recently arrived in the UK and have little or no understanding of the English language. Emir, who moved to England from Turkey in 2019, said: "I feel like today is the peak day of my entire adventure.

"All those five years was basically just for today. My main goal to come here was to study in a good university and I feel like I've done it today and I'm really happy about it. I'm going to study law at the University of Nottingham."

Also among the high achievers are Adjoa and Alisha, who have both secured places to study medicine at the University of Birmingham. Adjoa, who achieved ABB grades, said: "I'm really happy. Everyone should be so proud of themselves no matter what their results are. I think A-levels have been so hard this year. There have been lots of obstacles but my teachers have been so supportive, making sure you've got what you need."

Alisha, who also achieved ABB, said: "I'm really happy with my results. It was a bit stressful, but you just have to focus on the next exam and keep doing what you've been doing. Keep working hard and everything worked out fine.

"There are a lot of great teachers here so anytime you needed help with anything they were always willing to help."

In addition, Nana achieved A*, A, B, B grades and will be pursuing Physics at the University of Warwick, Cathrine secured Dist*, A, A grades and will study Accounting and Finance at Aston University and Nurya achieved Dist*, Dist*, C and will study Accounting and Finance at Manchester.

Cathrine said: "I didn't expect to get an A in sociology. I am really happy because I've done a lot of revision and it paid off. It can be hard, but with organisation, staying on top of your work, it is doable. The teachers are always available to help you. That was something that I really liked and what really helped me to get the grades I needed."

Matthew Everett, Headteacher of Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School, said: "We are incredibly proud of our students' hard work and dedication this year. Their determination and perseverance has truly paid off. These results reflect not only their academic capabilities, but also their character and resilience.

"I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff and parents, who have provided unwavering support and guidance throughout the students' academic journeys.

"To all students who have received their results today, we congratulate you on your achievements, both personal and academic. We are incredibly proud and look forward to hearing of your continued successes as you begin the next chapter in your lives."

For more information visit: https://cardinalwiseman.coventry.sch.uk/

Bebington, Wirral: St John Plessington Catholic College, Bebington

The Bebington-based school welcomed back students from 8am to open the all-important envelopes containing their results.

There has been a significant improvement in A-level results with 95 per cent A*-E grades. The school also reported a 100 per cent pass rate in vocational subjects with 67 per cent achieving top marks of distinction* / distinction, and 97 per cent merit and above.

The class of 2024 excelled with many incredible success stories including Bridget Gallagher who achieved an A* in art, an A* in history and an A in design technology. Another student, Ruby Rice, achieved distinction* in PE, distinction* in health and social care and an A in sociology. Year 13 student, Corey Haynes, achieved D*D*D* in media, business and computing.

Many students will be heading to university in September, including Adam Birnie who achieved an A* in religious studies, and a B in both history and English literature. Adam will attend the University of Edinburgh to study history. Another student, Daniel Mahabir, will attend Durham University to study chemistry as he secured an A in maths and chemistry and a B in physics. Sean Bridson will be going to the University of Nottingham to study history and philosophy after achieving a distinction in music, an A in religious studies and a B in history. Daniel Edge will be going to Bird College to study dance after achieving a distinction* in business, a distinction in applied science and a C in geography.

Other students opted to explore different pathways including apprenticeships and employment including Ryan Alwin-George, who will begin an apprenticeship with Jaguar Land Rover and Adam Saunders who will embark on an apprenticeship with Morgan Sindall.

Year 13 student, Lydia Tucker, achieved an A* in art, an A* in English literature and a distinction in performing arts and will embark on an art foundation course. Alane Anil achieved an A* in psychology and an A in both biology and chemistry. Alane is taking a gap year to gain medical experience, with plans to study medicine next year.

Mrs Alison Lock, senior assistant headteacher and director of sixth form, said: "I am delighted with the results achieved by our sixth form students. 98 per cent of students achieved their first-choice university offer with the remaining students getting their insurance offer. These results testify to their hard work over the last few years. Each student has worked incredibly hard and should be so proud as they embark on this new chapter. Well done class of 2024!"

Headteacher of St John Plessington Catholic College, Mr Peadar McLoughlin, said: "This year we are thrilled to see significant improvements in our results, and I would like to say a massive congratulations to those collecting their A-level and BTEC results today; your continued commitment and dedication to your studies is admirable.

"From everyone at St John Plessington, we wish you the very best of luck for your futures and we are honoured to have been a part of your journey."

For more information visit: www.stjohnplessington.com/

Wallasey: St Mary's Catholic College

On Thursday, 15 August, St Mary's Catholic College students returned to the school to collect their long-awaited A-level and BTEC results. Bursting with enthusiasm, students entered the school ready to receive their grades and prepare to embark on a new journey. For many students, A-level and BTEC results are a huge milestone in their education journey. Overall, A-level results have improved on last year's with some strong individual performances.

Students at the Wallasey-based school opted to pursue a range of pathways, including apprenticeships, university degrees, employment and further education college courses. Many of the students at St Mary's will head to university in the autumn and have received offers from several esteemed institutes across the UK, including James Brady who will study law at Liverpool John Moores University after achieving two distinctions and a B in philosophy and ethics. Also heading to Liverpool John Moores University is Lucia Moor who is studying zoology.

Isabella Cuthbert will attend the University of Leeds after achieving a B in geography and philosophy and a distinction* in sport. Fellow student, Jonathan Marlow, is set to follow his dream to study sports and exercise after achieving a double distinction* in his studies. Lucia Hitchmough will study policing and investigations at Liverpool John Moore's University, while Ella Bennett will attend Staffordshire University to study paramedic science. After securing a distinction* and distinction in health and social care and a C in philosophy and ethics, Year 13 student Sophie Dreelan will attend Liverpool John Moores University to study for an undergraduate degree in health and social care. Emily Latham will also attend Liverpool John Moores University where she will study human resource management. Year 13 student Harry Bennett will be heading further afield to the University of Central Lancashire to study sports journalism after achieving three distinctions.

For the students who will start apprenticeships, they will join the workforce of several well-established employers throughout the local area and beyond. Liam Cubbin will join Airbus to embark on an aerostructures apprenticeship, while fellow student Ellie Williams has joined Kids Day Planet as a nursery nurse apprentice after achieving two distinctions in health and social care. Mckenzie Farrell has secured an exciting bricklaying apprenticeship with Persimmon which will see them travel overseas to Portugal as part of the training.

Deputy headteacher, Mr Aaren Hampson, said: "It has been incredible to see our Year 13 students opening their results this morning, and we are confident these represent fantastic attainment and progress from their sixth form career. Our students have worked so hard and demonstrated true dedication; they should be proud. Now they begin a new chapter with so many exciting opportunities ahead."

Headteacher Mr Kevin Maddocks, added: "Results day is always such a special day and a chance to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students. Today is a culmination of seven years of hard work and a living example of our vision, which is to work together to succeed together. Congratulations to all our Year 13 students. We wish you luck on your next chapter and look forward to seeing the amazing things you each achieve."

For more information visit: https://stmaryswallasey.com/

Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex: St Bernard's High School

St Bernard's High School has announce an exceptional set of Post 16- academic results achieved by students this year, affirming the school's position among the top-performing secondary schools in Southend.

A number of students have excelled and secured places at prestigious Russell Group universities across the country, including Maisie who achieved A*A*A* and is pursuing a History degree at Warwick University, Simra who achieved AAA and has secured a place to study Biomedical Engineering at Sheffield, Neve who achieved A*AA and has also secured a place at Sheffield to study Psychology. In addition, St Bernard's students have excelled in the creative industries, securing places on a number of highly sought courses including Jagoda and Caitlin who both achieved A*AB securing places at Italia Conti to study Dance and Musical Theatre, Pallas who achieved A* A B and is pursuing a Film degree with a Professional Placement at Falmouth and Minto Ko who has secured a place at Central St Martins in London.

Congratulations to all the students, their families, and the whole school community on this remarkable achievement.

Allison Moise Dixon, Headteacher of St Bernard's High School said, "Our students have excelled again this year, achieving outstanding results that reflect their hard work and commitment. I couldn't be more proud of their accomplishments and the resilience they have shown. At St Bernard's, we strive to nurture both academic excellence and personal growth. These fantastic outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of our holistic approach to education, preparing our students for fulfilling futures ahead. I wish all students the best."

Results: There was 100% pass rate in ALL subjects. 100% Dance students achieved 'A' or 'A*' grades 100%. Drama students achieved 'B' or higher. 100% Mathematics, Geography, History, Religious Studies, Fine Art, Graphics & Photography students achieved 'C' or higher. 100% Health & Social Care students achieved 'Merit' or higher 100% I.T. students achieved 'Distinction'
100% Physics students achieved 'A'. 84% received A*-C grades. Average BTEC grade was 'Distinction'.

Sarah Jackson, Head of Sixth Form said, "It is wonderful to see our students rewarded with an exceptional set of results this year. This is a year group who have demonstrated remarkable resilience to overcome the earlier disruption to their education caused by Covid. Students choose St Bernard's because they know that in addition to excellent teaching, they will get the individual pastoral support that is necessary to achieve their potential. Our students will go onto a range of destinations including university, apprenticeships and employment at prominent international employers.The range of prestigious courses onto which they have been accepted demonstrates our belief in the unique potential of each student. We wish them every success in their next steps."

St Bernard's High School is a welcoming, inclusive school that has been serving the community of Southend for over 110 years. Recognised as one of the most distinguished secondary schools in the area, the school was graded "Good" by Ofsted in 2023. The report highlighted the exceptional performance of students in the Sixth Form, praising the quality of teaching and education at the school. Sixth-form students benefit from teaching that provides a high level of challenge. Most students achieve well in their examinations. Ofsted 2023

For more information visit: www.stbernardswestcliff.org.uk/

Ickenham, London Borough of Hillingdon: The Douay Martyrs Catholic Secondary School

The Douay Martyrs Catholic Secondary School, in Ickenham, in the London Borough of Hillingdon is pleased to announce fantastic post-16 exam results marked by significant individual achievements for students who secured places at prestigious universities. This is a testament to our commitment to fostering a Christ-centred learning environment where every student is empowered to realise their full potential.

Headteacher Fiona McCloskey said, "The exceptional results achieved this year at Douay Martyrs are a testament to the extraordinary efforts of our students and staff. We take immense pride in nurturing an environment where our students can truly shine."

There was an increase in overall results where a third of entrants were awarded A* or A, and Computer Science where a fifth of students achieved the highest. An Increasing numbers of students whose average A-Level grade was an A*-A (11%) and A*-B (29%)

Mr. Patel, Head of the Sixth Form said: "These impressive results meant that most students managed to achieve their goals and secure places at top universities to study various subjects including, Medicine at UCL, Mechanical Engineering at Bristol, and Law at Warwick.

Student attending UCL (1st Choice) "I want to express my gratitude to my teachers. Their constant support and reassurance prevented me from falling behind and motivated me to work even harder, leading to the results that will help me flourish in my next steps."

Student attending Bristol University (1st Choice) "I'm grateful for my time at Douay. I discovered my passion, received encouragement during moments of doubt, and was continually pushed to reach my full potential. I will miss the school and the teachers, but I will carry with me all the lessons they taught me."

Student attending Warwick University (1st Choice)- "I am so incredibly happy. I got better results than expected, but that's thanks to the support my family and school have given me during these stressful times, and all the revision workshops we were provided. Thank you."

Founded in 1962, The Douay Martyrs Catholic Secondary School has proudly served the Ickenham community for over 60 years. The most recent Ofsted report in May 2024 graded the school as "good" in all areas, reflecting a commitment to excellence. "The school has had a sharp focus on improving academic outcomes and ensuring that sixth-form students know and remember more as they progress through their studies." - Ofsted 2024

For more information visit: www.douaymartyrs.co.uk/

LIverpool: All Saints Sixth Form College, Garston

Year 13 students from All Saints Sixth Form College received their A-level and BTEC results on Thursday morning 15 August).

Proudly part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, All Saints Sixth Form College welcomes students from all over the city. This year's results show significant improvements in several subjects, including games design, digital media, computer science, and Spanish.

Some standout successes include Jasmine who achieved an A in criminology, a B in philosophy and a B in psychology. She is going to study law at the University of York. Fellow student, Melad secured a distinction* in games design, a distinction* in digital media and a C in computer science. He is enrolling at the University of Manchester to study computer science. Aaliyah achieved a B in criminology, a B in philosophy, and a C in psychology. She has chosen to study primary teaching at Edge Hill University. Freddie is going to study politics at the University of Liverpool after achieving a B in philosophy, a B in psychology and a C in English. Sina obtained a distinction* in games design, a distinction* in digital media and a C in philosophy. Sina is heading to Liverpool John Moores University to study games development.

The supportive and enriching environment at All Saints Sixth Form College fosters not only academic excellence but also personal growth, ensuring that every student is equipped with the skills and confidence needed for their future.

Mr Grant Sibbald, head of sixth form, said: "A huge congratulations to our class of 2024. These brilliant results are a reflection of the hard work and determination of our wonderful Year 13 students. It is exciting to see many of our students pursuing degrees at prestigious universities, as well as embarking on exciting degree apprenticeships.

"On behalf of all the staff at All Saints Sixth Form College, I would like to wish our students all the best in their next endeavours."

Located on the same campus as The Academy of St Nicholas, the sixth form will welcome students from the school in September, offering them the opportunity to pursue both A-level and vocational courses.

Mr Gary Lloyd, headteacher of The Academy of St Nicholas, added: "All Saints Sixth Form College offers a natural progression for our students, and provides a diverse range of A-level and vocational courses to support their academic and career aspirations. The college is committed to providing exceptional support and guidance to ensure every student thrives and reaches their full potential."

For more information visit: https://allsaintssixthformcollege.org.uk/

Hackney, London: Our Lady's Catholic High School

Our Lady's Catholic High School, is delighted to announce another year of excellent Post-16 exam results, positioning the school among the top-performing Sixth Form schools in the borough.

With 50% of students achieving grades A* to A (or equivalent) and 84% securing grades A* to C (or equivalent), the school continues to uphold its strong tradition of academic excellence. Guided by the mission statement "Shaping Tomorrow, Inspiring by Faith," Our Lady's Catholic High School remains dedicated to empowering students from the local community to gain admission to top universities and pursue successful careers in various fields.

The school continues with its longstanding and strong tradition of academic excellence guided by its mission statement "Shaping Tomorrow, Inspiring by Faith". This commitment is reflected in helping students from the local community enter into top universities and pursue careers across various fields.

This year, students have been offered and accepted places at several prestigious Russell Group universities, as well as other leading institutions. Notable achievements include Ana-Maria, who secured grades ABC and will read History at UCL. Meanwhile, Kyei A, Solomon K, and Amanda A each achieved D*DD, and will be studying Business and Management, Business Computing, and Cyber Security at university, respectively. Congratulations to all the students, their families, and the dedicated teachers and staff who have contributed to this remarkable success.

Headteacher Andy English expressed his pride in the students' achievements, stating, "Our Lady's is a special place where Sixth Form students can truly flourish, and today's results are a reflection of that. I am delighted to see the hard work of our students rewarded with such impressive grades. We remain committed to providing the best possible environment for our students, enabling them to reach their goals and make their families and community exceedingly proud."

Mr Bailey, Head of Sixth Form, echoed these sentiments, stating, "We are extremely proud of the A Level and BTEC results of our Sixth Form students. After two years of hard work, our students have now gained access to their first-choice university and can therefore begin the next stage of their pathway. For many students, they will be the first in their family to attend university and this is a remarkable achievement. On behalf of all of the staff at Our Lady's, we wish them well on the next stage of their journey."

Our Lady's Catholic High School will be renamed as All Saints Catholic High School and will admit girls and boys from Year 7 in September 2024. It is renowned for delivering outstanding progress and achievement for girls aged 11 to 16 and girls and boys 16-18. The school is the highest-performing Catholic secondary school in Hackney and ranks in the top 20% nationwide for Progress 8 (based on 2024 data).

The most recent Diocesan Inspection, conducted in May 2024, rated the school as "Good" with several features deemed "Outstanding." Similarly, Ofsted classified the school as "Good" in 2023, highlighting the exceptional performance of students in the Sixth Form.

"Many pupils choose to stay on at the school at the Sixth Form where they also have a breadth of educational courses to select from." Students of all backgrounds work really well together" - OFSTED 2023

For more information see: www.ourladys.hackney.sch.uk/

St Bonaventure's 6th Form Newham, London

The school recorded an impressive A*/A rate of nearly 20% and 87% of students achieving A* to C. Many students have secured places at prestigious universities including Imperial College London, UCL (University College London), LSE (London School of Economics and Political Science) and University of Warwick to study a wide range of subjects including medicine, politics, economics, chemical engineering, biomedicine and optometry. A number of students have also secured highly-sought after apprenticeships and employment opportunities. These achievements reflect St Bonaventure's commitment to providing the best possible learning environment and exceptional teaching with strong pastoral support.

Congratulations to all the 6th Form students who have made themselves, their families, and the whole school community proud with this set of fantastic results.

Headteacher Chris McCormack was full of praise for the dedication demonstrated by the students in their exams, commenting: "Our 6th Form continues to be a source of joy within the St Bonaventure's Community. Congratulations to our students who have been rewarded for all their hard work alongside the dedication of their brilliant teachers. Working together they have, once again, achieved excellent outcomes. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers for all their future endeavours. Just as they did during their time with us, I am sure they will use their talents to make a positive contribution to the common good."

Wayne Templeman, Director of 6th Form, said, "We are delighted to announce that our results have improved once again across all grade profiles. We are especially pleased with the improved number of A* and A grades in our 6th Form, testament to the hard work of all staff and students."

Students of St Bonaventure's 6th Form have achieved outstanding performances across various subjects. Key statistics are as follows:

Babrak, accomplished A*AA, who is set to pursue a degree in Accounting & Finance at Queen Mary's University , said "I am so thankful for the opportunities that St Bon's has afforded me during my time as a student here. The teachers saw my potential and always encouraged me. I look forward to going off to university and hopefully one day I will return and give back to the school community".

Adriana who stands among the highest-achieving students with A*AAA grades expressed her joy regarding her results and said: "I'm thrilled with my results, the teachers really pushed me into doing my best and I appreciate all their hard work. I can now head off to Imperial College London to study Materials, Science & Engineering."

James, another accomplished student with grades ABB, said: "I'm thrilled with my results and I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given here at St Bonaventure's. I'm now excited to be undertaking an Insurance Apprenticeship with Liberty Specialty Markets where I will get to learn on the job. My teachers helped me find and secure this position and I can't wait to start."

St. Bonaventure's 6th Form is committed to inclusivity, welcoming students within Newham and surrounding areas. The sixth form takes great pride in its longstanding tradition of preparing students for admission into prestigious higher education institutions across the UK. Ofsted has rated St Bonaventure's Sixth form 'Outstanding' highlighting the excellent level of teaching and education provided to all students. "Leaders provide comprehensive careers advice and guidance, including regular visits from guest speakers and a highly active network of former pupils. Sixth-form students receive a great deal of support, including with their applications for university and apprenticeships." - Ofsted 2022

St Bonaventure's is a voluntary-aided Catholic Secondary School in Forest Gate, east London for boys aged 11-16 and for boys and girls aged 16-18 in the Sixth Form.

For more information visit - www.stbons.org/