Pupils and staff at All Saints Catholic School in York are once again celebrating excellent exam results. 
An impressive 9% of all GCSE grades were at grade 9, which is almost double the national average, and 36% of all grades at were 7 or above, which is double the average for Yorkshire and the Humber.

“Pupils continue to be impacted by the fallout from the pandemic, and yet despite all the challenges, this group of young people have excelled and made great progress,” said headteacher Sharon Keelan-Bardsley.
“We are delighted for the significant numbers of pupils who have achieved all 8s and 9s, but also for those who have overcome adversity to perform at the highest level and achieve their goals.
“It is a privilege to work with young people who have such high aspirations and with a team of dedicated members of staff who care deeply about ensuring our young people complete Year 11 with the best life chances.
“Our pupils can now look to the future with confidence, and we are excited to welcome many of them back to study in our high-performing, values-driven sixth form.”
All Saints’ A level students are also celebrating another fantastic set of results and can now move on to the next stage of their lives with an excellent academic foundation.
There were some outstanding subject and individual outcomes. For example, everyone who studied further maths achieved an A*.
In drama, more than 70% of the cohort achieved an A or A* and in philosophy and fine art this was 60% and 63% respectively.
Many subject areas with large student numbers achieved excellent outcomes, including history, where 77% of the cohort achieved an A*-B, biology, where 69% achieved A*-B and psychology and English language with 73% and 70% respectively.
Eight students will take up places at Oxford and Cambridge, with several more deferring until next year.
The vast majority of our students have secured highly competitive university places and achieved some superb outcomes.
Our BTEC results are the best the school has ever achieved and without exception, our students achieved a merit or higher.

The students listed below are just a small sample of those who have attained at the highest level.

• James Atkinson 4A* in computer science, French, maths and physics
• Robert O’Doherty 4A* in computer science, maths, further maths and physics
• Aruma Wormald 4A* in biology, maths and further maths and philosophy
• Jaimie Farquharson 3A* in English literature, history and Latin
• Imogen Fewster 3A*A in maths, further maths, computer science and English literature
• Jake Hanley 3A*A in maths, further maths, physics and computer science.
• Sebastian Harter Jones 3A* in biology, chemistry and maths
• Charlotte Armstrong – health and social care distinction * distinction and A biology
• Lennon Hartley – double distinction * in business C in psychology

“We are proud of all of our students and recognise the fantastic progress they have made throughout their time at All Saints,” said Mrs Keelan-Bardsley.
“This has been an exceptional time for young people nationally and there has been much documented in the press about the challenges and disruption to their education.
“These include knowledge gaps due to Covid lockdowns, attendance issues due to the impact of new variants of Covid, industrial action across transport and education and significant mental health issues.
“This has been our experience and although we have done all we can to mitigate these challenges, it has been an extremely stressful time for this cohort of young people.
“The staff at All Saints have been tireless in their support of our students and their fantastic results are a result of a strong partnership between school, student and home.”

Head of school Jacqueline Prime said it was wonderful to see St Francis Xavier, Richmond, pupils’ hard work being rewarded in their exam results.
“I am delighted with all this cohort of students has achieved,” she said. “They have been a great year group to work with and it’s fantastic to see so much hard work and determination being rewarded.
“Staff and students, along with parents and carers all deserve credit for what has been achieved.
“Approximately 40 per cent of all grades achieved were at 7 or above and these were well distributed across all subjects.
“There are many impressive individual stories. Some students have achieved far beyond expectations academically, while others have shown real determination to achieve in adversity.
“While studying for their GCSEs, a significant number of these students managed to excel in sporting activities, engage successfully in music and drama performances or continue with volunteering work in the local community and beyond.
“They are to be commended for being able to achieve that all-important healthy balance.
“As a staff, we are thankful for the time we have been able to spend with these students during their years at St Francis Xavier School and we wish them happiness and success in their futures.”

Joshua Greenwell

As head student, Joshua Greenwell has had to manage his school leadership responsibilities alongside his own studies throughout year 11.
He has been a shining example to his peers and to younger students and has really pushed himself to achieve in all aspects of his life.
Joshua has always been willing to share his experiences of autism and this year delivered an assembly to 600 students and staff on the subject.
He has achieved a phenomenal set of results securing 10 grade 8s or 9s as well as taking on the additional challenge of the Further Maths course.
Next year Joshua will be completing his A Levels with an organ scholarship.

Not satisfied with the normal challenges of year 11, Sia Makwana chose to give herself the personal challenge of tackling an additional GCSE Spanish course in her own time. Her determination was rewarded with an impressive grade 9.
Sia also managed her time to great effect so that she could take part in the school performances of Hamlet and Matilda throughout the year.
In total Sia gained 11 GCSEs, six of which were at a grade 9 as well as four grade 8s and a grade 7.
After opening her results, with her mum, Sia said: “I am delighted, I am really pleased. The hard work has paid off.”
Sia is looking forward to starting her A Levels in Chemistry, Biology and Spanish in September. She has been a huge asset to the school and we wish her maximum success in the future.

Harry King

We are absolutely thrilled with Harry King’s outstanding GCSE results. His dedication and hard work have truly paid off. With impressive grade 6s in English, Geography, PE, and RE, Harry has shown his commitment to excellence across a range of subjects, securing 10 GCSE passes.
In addition to his academic achievements, Harry’s talent and dedication on the rugby field has been outstanding. During his time completing his GCSEs, he earned a well-deserved scholarship with the Newcastle Thunder Under-16 Academy.
His continued representation of both the academy and the school rugby team is a testament to his remarkable ability to balance his studies with his passion for sports.
Harry embarks on the next chapter of his academic journey studying Level 3 BTEC in Sports, while continuing with his rugby commitment.
Harry said: “Looking forward I now hope to go on and play rugby in America. That’s the dream.”
We have no doubt he will continue to excel. Congratulations once again, Harry. Your achievements are an example of what hard work and determination can accomplish.

Nathaniel Gleave

We could not be any prouder of Nathaniel Gleave. Navigating his educational path with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, Nathaniel has demonstrated resilience and determination throughout his journey at SFX.
Starting school with aspirational targets of a grade 7, Nathaniel has worked incredibly hard to gain grade 9s English Literature, History, Media, RE and overall achieving 10 strong GCSE passes.
Nathaniel’s mum, who came into school with him to collect his results, said: “We couldn’t be any prouder, what a fantastic end to a wonderful time at this school.”
Nathaniel is now going on to study History, Classics and English Literature. His strength and courage will no doubt continue to inspire others and we wish him the very best for what we know will be a bright future.

Trinity Catholic College headteacher Andy Rodgers said this year’s results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of so many of the school’s pupils.
“After what has been such a turbulent time within secondary education, it is with great satisfaction that we are seeing so many of our young people achieve so much across a range of curriculum areas,” he said.
“The resilient character of our young people has really shone through and will stand them in great stead for their future endeavours, wherever they may be.
“It’s great to see that a larger percentage of our students are achieving grades 9-7 than pre-pandemic examination results as we return to a level of normality within the education system.
“To maintain a positive attitude towards their studies and examinations promises a bright future for so many of our pupils.
“A number of them attained grade 9s in English, Mathematics and sciences. Our vocational subjects also continue to perform well, with strong performances highlighted in Engineering, Health and Social Care and Sport.
“Our young people and staff team are to be congratulated for their hard work throughout the pupils’ time at Trinity. I wish our Year 11s all the very best for their future.”
To apply for a place at Trinity Sixth Form, email [email protected] or [email protected].

Noble Anim has performed exceptionally well throughout his examinations and has been awarded with seven grade 9s, two distinctions, two grade 8s and an A grade in Additional Mathematics.
Noble joined Trinity Catholic College from Nigeria and has adapted fantastically well, showing tremendous drive in his studies and a courteous attitude throughout.
Noble said: “I have loved my time at Trinity and thank God for my results. When I opened the envelope I was so happy!”

George Otedola has shown outstanding determination, hard work and dedication to his studies throughout his time at Trinity Catholic College and has been rewarded with five grade 9s and no grade lower than a 7 across all subjects.
Notable mention goes to his fantastic achievement of 9-9 grades in Science.
George said: “I was nervous at first but I’m delighted with my results. I’m really shocked but proud.”

Vance Ezinwoke can be commended for his fantastic achievements throughout his examinations and school journey.
Vance has shown an incredible attitude to attain a grade 9 in English Language, grade 8s in Chemistry, French and Mathematics and a further five grade 7s.
Vance has also been awarded a grade B as a reward for his dedication to Additional Mathematics.

Riley Norton joined Trinity from St Gabriel’s RC Primary School in Year 7 and has been a model pupil, and his hard work and dedication is borne out in his fantastic results.
Having achieved grade 9s in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics, a grade A in Additional Maths and seven further grade 7s across a range of curriculum subjects, we are sure Riley will continue this success in the future.
“I was delighted with all my results, especially English. Thank you to all my teachers who have supported me on this journey.”

St Peter’s Catholic College in South Bank, Middlesbrough, continues to go from strength to strength, ensuring pupils leave with the GCSE results they need for the next stage in their education.
Results were above the national average in English Language by 5%, by 10% in Mathematics and by 15% in Science.
Despite the rigour of assessments returning to pre-Covid levels, English and Maths results at the school have improved by an impressive 15% since 2019.
Pupils achieved top grades in English, History, Music, Maths, iMedia and Sport.
Headteacher Stephanie Garthwaite said: “Despite the disruption to their education, our pupils have embraced the challenge of this exceptionally arduous exam period with determination, resilience and maturity.
“I continue to be proud of every single one of them and have enjoyed celebrating their successes with them today.
“As well as achieving some outstanding results, our pupils have grown into well rounded young adults ready to carry forward our mission statement: ‘One faith, one family, one future’.
“I would like to thank the wider St Peter’s family for their ongoing support as our school community continues to flourish, and our staff for their commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to achieve their potential.
“I wish every year 11 pupil all the success in their next steps – and remember, you are always part of the St Peter’s family.
“If any Year 11 pupils are interested in continuing their post-16 education within our trust family, there are limited places available for September at Trinity Sixth Form, part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust.
Email [email protected] and someone will contact them to discuss their options.

Ruth McGeary with Mrs Garthwaite

Former St Margaret Clitherow’s Catholic Primary School, South Bank, pupil Ruth McGeary has shown tenacity and worked incredibly hard throughout her time at St Peter’s and especially in preparing for her GCSEs and attending all interventions.
Today, she was rewarded with some outstanding grades, including an 8 in English Language and a number of grade 6s in her other subjects.
Ruth was absolutely ecstatic with her results, saying: “Using capital letters properly definitely paid off in English!”
She now intends to study Health and Social Care alongside Sociology.

Alex Clack

Alex Clack was unable to attend results day at St Peter’s due to playing hockey for England in Italy. However, he was delighted when his Mum phoned him to share the fantastic news of his results.
Alex is a conscientious pupil who has worked incredibly hard but is also very humble and shy and doesn’t like to be the centre of attention.
Today he achieved a number of grade 8s in History, Maths and RE as well as 7s in Design Technology, English Language and English Literature.
Alex, who was training late into yesterday evening, said: “I am pleased with my results and grateful for my time at St Peter’s.”
We wish Alex and England the best of luck in their tournament.

Chloe Hindshaw, a former pupil of Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School, has been an outstanding and hard-working pupil throughout her time at St Peter’s. She is an avid reader with a fantastic attitude.And her steadfast work ethic has paid off with amazing results.
Chloe achieved grade 8s in History and RE, as well as 7s in both her English Language and Literature and 6s in Maths and Photography.
Chloe intends to go to college but may now change her subject choices for A levels due to her amazing results, and is even considering becoming an English teacher!
Chloe said: “I am proud of my results and thankful to my teachers for supporting me with my GCSEs.”
Chloe’s younger brother, Jack, will join the school in September.

Throughout Andrea Iosub’s time at St Peter’s she has been a mature, conscientious and hardworking pupil.
During Year 11 she contributed significantly to the school family as a senior prefect and librarian.
She celebrates some excellent grades today, including grade 8s in English Language and French. She also achieved grade 7s in English Literature and Maths.
Andrea was incredibly overwhelmed and couldn’t quite believe her amazing results.
Andrea said: “I am ecstatic with my results and very proud!”
Even though the school is sad to be losing Andrea, her younger brother David joins the school in September.

Sacred Heart Catholic Secondary School, Redcar, headteacher Louise Dwyer was delighted with results that were well above the national average.
She said: “At Sacred Heart, our mission is to make sure that our young people fulfil their potential and find their future.
“The class of 2023 have truly fulfilled our mission by demonstrating hard work, grit and determination. As a result, they have secured some excellent GCSE results and secured their post-16 destinations.
“We are particularly delighted that our school has maintained an upward trajectory when compared to pre-pandemic results. This illustrates the continuous drive for improvement in our school ethos, culture and outcomes.
“We are particularly delighted that some of the most challenging academic subjects, such as English, Maths and French, continue to secure excellent outcomes, especially when compared with the national picture.
“Nationally, the percentage of grades 4 and upwards in English was 61% and we achieved 76%. In English, the national average was 64% and we achieved 81%. In French, the national average was 70% and Sacred Heart pupils achieved 91%.
“Similarly, our extensive suite of vocational subjects has once again achieved outstanding progress, particularly in Engineering and Health and Social Care.
“Overall, the class of 2023 have secured almost 300 of the top grades, 7 to 9.
“From the governors, teachers, support staff and I, we wish to extend a heartfelt well done to each and every one of our pupils as they begin their post-16 journey.
“We are confident that the Catholic values they have been taught at home and here at Sacred Heart, along with some excellent results, will help ensure they have a very bright future ahead.
“Finally, remember it is not too late to join our NPCAT Sixth Form if you wish to continue your education with us. For further information contact head of sixth form Mr Scarr at [email protected] for Trinity Sixth Form enrolment.”

Alister Dicken

Head boy Alister Dicken has achieved an outstanding number of top grades – six grade 9s and four grade 8s.
Alister is not only academically very able but he is also an extremely talented musician, playing viola in Tees Valley Orchestra.
Alister, who attended St Bede’s Catholic Primary School before joining Sacred Heart, will study A level Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics, with an ambition to attend a top university, where he hopes to pursue his love of science.
“I just want to say thank you to all my teachers for the amazing support, I really did not expect these results,” he said.
Alister’s mum was overwhelmed and expressed her thanks to the school.

Matilda Oxley

Matilda Oxley, a former St Bede’s Catholic Primary pupil, achieved four grade 9s and five grade 8s. In addition, Matilda achieved a grade A in an Additional Maths GCSE that she studied for in her spare time with the help of our expert Maths teachers.
Not only is Matilda a very diligent pupil, in her spare time Matilda is a budding actress and performs regularly in local theatres. She is also an exceptional artist, with many of her pieces displayed in school.
Matilda will be studying Mathematics and Art and is still undecided on her third and fourth A levels. She hopes to study Mathematics at university, while still pursuing her love of the arts.
Matilda would like to thank her teachers for all the support over her five years at Sacred Heart.

Former St Bede’s Catholic Primary pupil Arlo Bradley achieved three grade 9s, three grade 8s, two grade 7s and a grade 6 with distinction in Engineering.
She also gained a grade C in an Additional Maths GCSE, which he studied for in his spare time with the help of Sacred Heart’s expert Maths teachers.
Arlo will continue his studies with A levels in Classics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Computer Science, with the ambition of studying at one of the country’s top universities.
Arlo loved Computer Science and thanked all his teachers for helping him achieve such great results, especially his History and Maths teachers.
Arlo’s mum added: “I am so proud of Arlo and his grades. He could not have worked any harder.”

Cody Thomas

Cody Thomas, who attended St Benedict’s Catholic Primary before joining Sacred Heart, achieved two grade 9s, four grade 8s, two grade 7s and two grade 6s.
Cody has worked extremely hard to achieve her results and she will now study A levels in Psychology, Criminology, Biology and Sociology, with the ambition to go to university.
She said: “I was not expecting these grades at all! I am so happy and want to thank my teachers for all their help and support.”

Deborah Law, headteacher of St Patrick’s Catholic College in Thornaby, said the school’s results are a testament to pupils’ resilience and dedication to their studies, despite the turbulent secondary education they encountered in their five years at school.
She said: “We are proud of pupils’ individual successes and due to their hard work, they will now have a variety of choices as they move on to their post-16 studies.
“Many pupils achieved above their targets due to their sheer effort, determination to succeed and the support and guidance from their teaching staff.
“The class of 2023 are an incredible and unique group of young people who will always be part of the St Patrick’s alumni, and we look forward to hearing about their further success in the future.
“If any Year 11 pupils are interested in continuing their post-16 education within our trust family, there are limited places available for September at Trinity Sixth Form – part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust.
“Pupils can email [email protected] or [email protected] and someone will contact them to discuss their options.”

Keenan Stenburge is elated with his strong GCSE results and relieved that all his hard work has paid off.
Keenan achieved above grade 7s in the EBacc – a set of GCSE subjects that include English, Mathematics, Science, Geography or History and a Modern Foreign Language. Pupils securing these subjects have a wide range of options available to them for further study and future careers. He also achieved a grade 8 in Religious Education.
Keenan said: “I feel overwhelmed with the grades I have achieved and they will open more potential career paths.
“I intend to go to college and perhaps on to university. I want to thank all the teachers for being helpful and supportive over the last five years.”

Mehtab Dhatt, who has achieved an outstanding set of GCSE results, has been a real asset to St Patrick’s Catholic College family over the last five years.
Mehtab is a very conscientious and hardworking pupil who demonstrated high levels of resilience in his studies.
He has been awarded top grades in Mathematics, Religious Education, Chemistry, Physics and Food.
Mehtab is excited to begin his further education in the field of Medicine, as he would like to become a dentist.
He said: “Thanks to all the teachers and my parents for supporting me, without them this wouldn’t be possible.
“My tip to other pupils is to never give up and always be dedicated to your studies.”

Sophie Speight, a former pupil of Christ the King Catholic Primary in Thornaby, was overjoyed after achieving a distinction in Sport Science, grade 8s in Religious Education and Geography and grade 7s in English Language and English Literature.
Sophie’s hard work and determination have set an excellent example for younger pupils and she has excellent opportunities ahead of her based on these results.
Sophie is currently volunteering at a local vets and wants to study further in this field.
She said: “I am really happy with my results. I feel as though the self discipline I have pursued has helped me reach these grades. Thanks to all the teachers at St Patrick’s who have supported me.”

Chloe Verill remained a conscientious and reflective pupil throughout her time at St Patrick’s Catholic College. These qualities, as well as outstanding motivation, have enabled her to reach her full potential.
The school is very proud of the grades Chloe has achieved, which include a grade 9 in English and grade 8s in Mathematics, French and History. With these results Chloe is planning on moving to study Art and History at college and hopes to embark on a career in Architecture.
“I am really happy with my results and hope they will open up more doors for me,” she said.

Obiajulu Agu is elated with his GCSE results after overcoming personal challenges over the course of the last year.
Obi arrived from Nigeria in September 2022 and continued to seek the support needed to help him reach his full potential.
He has achieved grade 9s in Mathematics and Combined Science, as well as a distinction in Engineering.
Obi is overjoyed with his results and hopes to continue his studies at A level in the field of science before going on to university and seeking a career in software development. Obi commented: “I don’t have any words to say! I’m really happy with my results and just want to thank St Patrick’s Catholic College for all of their support since I arrived here.”