News & Headteacher Blogs

148 students sat A Level examinations or BTECs at The Downs School this year and once again the students have achieved an outstanding set of results. These were the first public examinations this cohort of students have sat, as their GCSEs were based on Centre Assessed Grades, which makes the grades they achieved even more remarkable.

A hugely impressive 13% of entries gained A* grades. 34% of entries achieved A*-A grades, 64% A*- B grades and 85% A*-C grades. At BTEC, 51% of entries gained a Distinction*- Distinction. These results compare extremely well with the results achieved by past cohorts.

Headteacher Chris Prosser said, ‘I know that for many of our students, waiting for their results has been an anxious time, especially with all the media coverage saying that grades this year will be crashing back down to earth after the pandemic. But the students should be incredibly proud, not only of the fantastic results they have achieved, but also of the great resilience they have shown. These were the first public exams this cohort of students has ever taken. That they have done so well under these really challenging circumstances shows that they are all exceptional, inspiring and talented young people. We couldn’t be prouder of them.’

Head of Sixth Form Pete Hogan said, ‘These are amazing results which all the students should be incredibly proud of. I am thrilled that this cohort of students has done so well. It has been an absolute pleasure to be their Head of Sixth Form and I know that their results they have achieved will be their springboard to some amazing university courses, apprenticeships and jobs. I know that all the staff at The Downs Sixth Form are so pleased for them and wish them all the very best for the future.’