GCSE Results Reach New Heights

GCSE pupils braved an early start as their nervous wait for examinations results came to an end. Grades were made available online from 6.00am, and in person from 8.00am, for boys in Year 10 and Year 11 to learn their fate.

For the vast majority, it is a day of huge celebration as this year’s cohort has achieved Shiplake’s greatest ever set of results. Thanks to pupils’ hard work, perseverance and innovative teaching, more top end grades were achieved than ever before.

Headmaster Mr Gregg Davies could not hide his immense pride, commenting: “We are delighted with the increase of grades achieved at the higher end of the spectrum, particularly given a national decline in the top marks awarded. We have also maintained a solid A*-C performance of 90%. We are celebrating a record percentage of A*s and A*-A grades (28% compared to 21% in 2013), with the A*-B percentage also rising to 58% from last year’s 51%. Particular congratulations go to seven boys receiving a clean sweep of A*s and As. All departments have demonstrated a positive value-added performance, with many pupils achieving grades much higher than their projections based on nationwide Year 9 assessments.”

It has been a particularly fantastic day for the Fenton family as twin brothers Matthew and James achieved 11A*s and 7As between them. Matthew’s unblemished record of straight A*s is truly exceptional and is a fitting reward for the dedication he has shown to his studies over the last year. Mother Anne Fenton commented: "I am absolutely delighted for the boys. When James joined Shiplake he was a 'C-grade' student, but his hard work and the support from staff has led to these excellent results."

Close friends Greg Holt and Greg Cooke chose virtually identical GCSE subjects, and both achieved fantastic results. Holt attained 8A*s and 1B while Cooke received 7A*s and 2As. They were joined at the College this morning by Dom Allen, Matt Brown and Chris Baker, with staff very keen to congratulate them all on their remarkable, consistent performances. Other high performers include Edward Warren, Louis Bossons Sartain and George Greenaway. Such widespread attainment of exceptional grades is clearly very pleasing, but the College is proud of performances across the board. Boys staying at Shiplake for Sixth Form can begin next year with confidence and an eagerness to maintain the work ethic that has served them well so far.