Principal’s Weekly Post – Summer Special

YORK HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES RECORD BREAKING GCSE RESULTS

York High School is delighted to announce a second consecutive year of exceptional GCSE outcomes. After breaking all previous records last summer, the school has delivered another outstanding set of results that reflect the ambition, hard work, and sustained dedication of both pupils and staff alike.

This year, a record-breaking number of pupils achieved at least a grade 4 in both English and mathematics, continuing the school’s upward trajectory and reflecting the transformational impact of high-quality teaching, targeted support, and a culture deeply rooted in high aspiration.

Across Excel Learning Trust, the core commitment to improving outcomes and changing life chances for vulnerable pupils has been a central priority. The difference between where disadvantaged pupils stood three years ago and where they are today is nothing short of striking.

Back in 2023 at York High School, just over one in four disadvantaged pupils secured a grade 4 or above in both English and mathematics. Today, through relentless focus and individualised academic intervention, that figure has risen to more than half. Even more remarkably, at grade 5 or above, the benchmark for a strong pass, the proportion of disadvantaged pupils achieving this standard has more than tripled over the exact same period. These substantial improvements clearly demonstrate that high expectations and structured support systems can bridge educational gaps and open up vital future opportunities.

York High School is immensely proud of the collective achievements of the entire year group, with several pupils securing exceptional individual top-tier results. Special recognition goes to Ethan Robin, who achieved an incredible seven Grade 9s, the highest possible grade, and Head Student Isobel Shaw, who secured an outstanding six Grade 9s. The entire school community extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to all departing Year 11 students as they take their next exciting steps into sixth form, further education, apprenticeships, and training.

Reflecting on the milestone achievement, Gavin Kumar, Principal of York High School, shared:

“I am incredibly proud of our pupils. They have worked with remarkable resilience, determination, and a genuine belief in themselves that shines through in these fantastic results. The continued, accelerated improvement for our disadvantaged pupils is especially important to us. It proves beyond doubt that our commitment to equity is working effectively and that every single child, regardless of their background or starting point, can achieve great things at York High School.”

York High School continues to build strong momentum year on year. These impressive outcomes confirm the school’s position as a rapidly improving, highly ambitious, and deeply inclusive community where every pupil is valued, challenged, and fully supported to reach their potential.