Hard-working pupils are celebrating record GCSE success at Sunderland’s Academy 360, rising to the challenge of new maths and English exams and excelling in science.
In maths 55% of students achieved a secure pass under the new grading system and in English 46% – an improvement on last year’s figures despite the removal of coursework from the final mark.
A total of 36% of pupils achieved five GCSE passes at A* to C grade with maths and English at grade 4+.
Science passes at A* to C more than doubled last year’s pass rate. Other highlights include a 95% pass rate for pupils taking PE, with GCSE passes at hospitality rising from 41% last year to 79%.
Academy 360’s A* to C grade GCSE pass rate has leapt by more than 20% since 2015 – the result of higher expectations and a strong focus on achievement.
“We are very pleased that the hard work of our students and teachers has paid off with our best ever results,” said Academy 360 Principal Rachel Donohue.
“Our results confirm that Academy 360 is continuing to significantly improve as we narrow the gap with the national average.
“Teachers are relentless in establishing a culture of higher expectations, our students have achieved exceptionally well under a very challenging assessment framework and I am proud of their efforts.”
Included in Academy 360’s exam roll of honour are Corey Burlinson who gained three A* GCSEs, a maths grade 8, English Language grade 6, four GCSE Bs and a C pass.
Natalie White achieved a maths grade 7, English Language and English Literature grade 5s, one A*, one A, three Bs and two Cs.
Corey, who is going to study at Sunderland College, said: “I’m going to do further maths, physics and English at A Level and I’m keen to pursue a career as an accountant.
“Academy 360 has made a lot of investment into pupils and is trying to improve the academy’s reputation as a whole and it’s working.”
Natalie said: “I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved, I’ve done better than I thought. I’m particularly pleased with my English result.”