Staff and students at Wensleydale School & Sixth Form are celebrating after securing another impressive set of GCSE results.
The Class of 2017 have maintained the standards set last year, with 67% securing a pass in English and maths – mirroring the record results set in 2016.
Julia Polley, Headteacher, said: “At every level we have a great deal to be proud of. Once again our students are likely to have significantly outperformed the national average. Our English Department has set a new benchmark for the pass rates they have secured and subjects like DT, Drama, Art and Religious Studies have all seen significant increases.”
“I am immensely proud not just of what we achieve, but the manner in which we achieve it. Our GCSE students didn’t just work hard, but supported each other every step of the way. This sense of family and community really is at the heart of how our students continually set the highest of standards.”
The importance of family was no better displayed by twins Sophie and James Ashcroft. Between them they secured the equivalent of 10 A*s and 5 As – much to the delight of their father Mark Ashcroft, who just so happens to be an Assistant Headteacher at Wensleydale School.
Sophie Ashcroft said: “Having your Dad work at your school does add some pressure, but I am absolutely thrilled with my results.
“All the teachers have been incredibly supportive, taking the time to help us revise and push us to exceed our own goals and ambitions. I have loved my time here.”
Other smiling faces included Ruth Dent, Eleanor Garrard, Jessica Parlour, Joe Seaborne, Annabel Simpson and Will Smith – who collectively secured a further 52 A*s, As or their equivalent grade.
Mrs Polley added: “These results mark the end of a fantastic academic year.
“On the top of today’s success, our A-Levels were the best in recent memory. Ofsted came in and praised the progress our students make, one of our teachers was even recognised as being North Yorkshire’s finest and a group of our young people went to Eton and stole the show during a debating contest.
“For such a close-knit school to achieve such a great deal is testament to the amazing staff and students who make Wensleydale School and Sixth Form such a caring and ambitious community.”
