Increase in number of A* to B grades at Malcolm Arnold Academy

Of the students who completed Year 13, more young people than ever achieved top grades, meaning that a record number will be heading off to the country’s top universities, including the prestigious University of Oxford.

In addition, the average grade of those students taking a vocational qualification was a distinction +

Chris Steed, Head of School, said: “Against nearly every measure that we evaIuate our Key Stage 5 against, our students have set new standards this year.

“There was a significant increases in the number of A* to B grades, and the number of students gaining three good vocational qualifications more than doubled.

“While we should be delighted as an academy, we should never forget what these results mean for our students who put so much hard work and effort into achieving these grades. Around 10 students will be heading off to Russell Group universities in the coming months, the most we have ever had.”

Among the students celebrating was Jacob Kearney who will read biomedical sciences at St Edmund’s College, Oxford after securing 3A* grades plus an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).

Jacob said: “I’ve really loved my time at MAA and the support that our teachers have given us to become independent thinkers and learners. I’m very excited to be going to Oxford, but I’ll miss my teachers, my friends and the great friendly community of MAA.”

Ben Steere, who achieved three As in maths, chemistry and physics, plus an EPQ, will now go on to read engineering at Sheffield University. He said: “I can’t thank enough the fantastic teachers and staff who’ve given so much support, guidance and opportunities and shown so much belief in us over the years. It’s really helped me achieve these results and secure my university place.

Other top performers included Rachel Clare, Szymon Dabrowski and Shannon Hughes who will all go on to their chosen universities.

Mr Steed added: “It is a huge congratulations and well done to all of our students. I would like to wish them all the very best for their futures.”

Wendy Marshall, Chief Executive of the David Ross Education Trust, said: “Malcolm Arnold Academy has always had some excellent BTEC results. What is incredibly pleasing is that this success has started to be replicated in the more traditional A-Level subjects as well. It shows that wherever a student’s talents lie, they will be able to achieve and excel at Malcolm Arnold.”