“Record-breaking” is an oft-used phrase in the media across the country on the release of public exam results and yet, with a history of consistently outstanding results, it is rare for the RGS to speak in these terms. This year’s results were, however, truly exceptional as the talented cohort achieved the most number of grade 9s ever achieved by an RGS year group when sitting GCSE examinations, 901 in total, and an astonishing 81% of all grades at either a Grade 8 or 9. Our students were, once again, rewarded for their impressive endeavour, disciplined application and genuine passion for learning. 69 students achieved 10 subjects at grade 8 and 9; while 36 students secured 11 subjects all at grade 8 and 9.
Also worthy of note was the fact that not only were these excellent grades secured in STEM subjects – with 100% of all grades in Mathematics and over 96% in Biology, Chemistry and Physics between grade 7 – 9 – but our students performed equally well across the board in all disciplines. The, arts, humanities and languages all enjoyed notable success. Dr Cox noted: “It is satisfying that our students can continue to find their own pathway through the School and achieve the very highest standards, irrespective of their individual passions and interests.”
Dr Cox continued: “Behind every grade of every student there is a story. Some results have been achieved with relative ease while others have only been achieved through hard graft. Some of the greatest success stories come from those students who have secured grade 7s, 8s or 9s that they once thought were impossible. It is an indication of the aspirational culture of the School and the inspirational nature of our teaching staff that these individual achievements are realised and students genuinely have no bar to their potential.
We could not be more proud of the way our students have shown resilience, maturity and sheer determination in recent months. They have collaborated and supported each other with kindness and empathy throughout the process, they have been encouraged to be open and honest with their concerns, and they have developed coping mechanisms to deal with deadlines and pressure. Most importantly, they have embraced every opportunity, approached life with characteristic good humour and energy, and enjoyed life to the full. Their growth as thinkers and learners are reflected in these excellent results and they are now ready to flourish in the Sixth Form where they can genuinely harbour the most ambitious of aspirations.”