News & Headteacher Blogs

The Downs School celebrates another strong year of GCSE success

On Thursday, 21 August 2025, 204 Year 11 students at The Downs School received their GCSE and BTEC results after months of hard work and anticipation. Students gathered with families and staff to collect their results and celebrate their achievements together.

Mr Chris Prosser, Headteacher said,
“Once again, our students have done themselves and our school proud. This cohort has worked with great determination and resilience. I taught this year group at home during lockdown in their first year here. Their results reflect their hard work, and the dedication of our staff and the support of families at home. I am delighted to see so many students achieving their personal goals and feeling confident about their next steps.

“The Downs School is well known for its academic success and the strong, supportive relationships between staff and students. These connections play an enormous part in helping each student reach their full potential. We are excited to see what the future holds for them.”

Mrs Gemma Meijboom, Head of Year 11, said,
“I feel incredibly proud of this year group. They have grown into kind, capable and motivated young people who have consistently shown a strong sense of community. Whether they’re joining our Sixth Form or pursuing other paths, they leave Year 11 having achieved something to be proud of. These results reflect their hard work and determination, and I know they will go on to great things.”

The majority of the students will now continue their journey at The Downs School Sixth Form, and others at other establishments, where they will take on new challenges and prepare for higher education or vocational pathways.  We are proud of them all and send our sincere thanks and best wishes for the future. Each student has made a valuable contribution to school life and helped make The Downs School the successful and supportive community it is today."

SUMMARY
204 students took exams in Year 11

• 18% of entries were graded at 9–8
• 29% of entries were graded at 9–7
• 64% of entries were graded at 9–5 (strong pass and above)
• 79% of entries were graded at 9–4 (standard pass and above)

We look forward to welcoming many of our students into Year 12 in September and wish all our leavers every success as they take their next steps.