Academic achievement at St Helen and St Katharine has once again drawn attention to the Abingdon institution following another set of outstanding GCSE results.

This year’s examination outcomes saw nearly half of all grades reach the highest possible mark, with almost three-quarters securing either a grade 8 or 9.

Sarah Rolling, the headteacher, expressed her delight at watching students collect their results, noting the grades reflected considerable effort and perseverance alongside a positive attitude throughout their studies.

The school’s examination record consistently demonstrates the hard work of dedicated staff members, the backing provided by families, and above all, the determination shown by students themselves.

The institution takes pride in announcing that all students performed well and looks forward to watching them continue their educational journey at the sixth form.

STEM subjects continued to be a particular strength, with the inaugural group of Further Mathematics candidates achieving the top grade in almost six out of ten entries.

In the sciences, biology, chemistry and physics each saw more than half of entries awarded the highest grade.

One pupil named Ella secured eleven grade 9s across her subjects, encompassing all three science disciplines.

Her parent Mariam expressed pride in Ella’s achievement, acknowledging the tremendous effort invested and the satisfaction of seeing it rewarded. She also thanked the teaching staff for their ongoing support.

The performing arts department also celebrated success, with three-quarters of drama candidates attaining grades 8 or 9, while the majority of music students received the top mark.

Christy, who earned a music scholarship for sixth-form study, reported being pleased with her results, noting they exceeded expectations. She credited her teachers for providing valuable guidance throughout her revision.

Her parent Risha commended the school’s nurturing approach, while her mother Sandra expressed gratitude for the institution’s contribution to her daughter’s accomplishment.

In computer science, over half of candidates earned grade 9s.

Pragya, who will begin sixth-form studies as an academic scholar, expressed surprise at her results, saying they could not have been better.

Her parents Shweta and Sumit praised the school’s supportive environment and noted that teachers consistently offered appropriate guidance at key moments, which helped Pragya reach her potential.

Physical education also yielded impressive outcomes, with almost two-thirds of students achieving the top grade.

Emily secured ten grade 9s along with both an Academic Scholarship and a Sport Scholarship, expressing satisfaction that her efforts had been rewarded. She acknowledged the substantial support received from teachers, which provided an effective foundation for her revision.

Ms Rolling reiterated that the school takes great pride in every student and looks forward to seeing them flourish during their A-level studies as members of the sixth form.