Down High School Students Receive Incredible AS and A-Level Results

Down High School pupils arrived at school early on Thursday 15 August, eagerly anticipating receipt of their AS and A-Level results. As the school enters its final year on the Mount Crescent site, there is significant cause for celebration as pupils from Years 13 and 14 achieved a tremendous set of results. 37 Year 14 pupils secured at least three A grades in their A2 exams, with 38% of all grades being A* or A. 82% of students achieved 3 A Level grades at A-C. For pupils sitting AS examinations, 16% of pupils secured at least 3 A grades with 33% of all results achieved being grade A.

Down High School Principal, Mrs Maud Perry, expressed her admiration for the outstanding results achieved and noted the hard work that brought this huge success.

“We are so proud today. The young people receiving results have navigated many challenges during their time at school, yet have demonstrated remarkable resilience, worked hard and aimed high. They truly deserve the exceptional set of results produced, which are all the more impressive given the widely reported depression in top grades as we return to 2019 marking standards.”

At A-Level, Jake Hamilton, Bethany McCoubrey, Eoin McMullan, Grace McMullan, Rachel Norris and Beth Rodgers attained 3 or more A* grades each. Tara Emmett and Ellen Taylor were successful in their applications to Oxford to study Land Economy, and History and Politics, respectively, with many other pupils accessing the university courses and higher-level apprenticeships of their choice. 

Mrs Perry added, “It is fabulous to see the pupils who joined our enlarged 6^th Form from local 11-16 schools again showing that they can achieve the highest grades and we are delighted to see how they have thrived in their post-16 studies.”

Finally, Mrs Perry acknowledged the sense of partnership that is integral to such exceptional results.

“I pay tribute to the professionalism and commitment of our teachers and support staff. Pupils receive the highest levels of encouragement, support and expertise from staff who genuinely care about them. We are also grateful for the leadership provided by our dedicated Board of Governors and the positive partnership we have with parents. The results published today reflect a vibrant, empowered community. As our Year 14 pupils progress to their next steps, we wish them every success in this exciting phase of their lives.”