Today was a wonderful and joyous day at Torquay Academy as we welcomed our students back into school to collect a record-breaking set of GCSE results. There were new highs across almost every headline measure, but today was about far more than numbers. It was an opportunity for our entire school community to celebrate everything this remarkable year group has achieved.
Behind every result was a story. For some students, there was the extraordinary achievement of opening an envelope containing a string of the very highest grades. For others, the proudest moment was seeing a grade 4 in a subject they had found difficult throughout their school career. Through determination, resilience and a willingness to keep working, they achieved the pass that had sometimes felt beyond their reach. Both achievements matter enormously, and every student had something to celebrate today.
These results reflect just how hard this year group has worked. Their success did not begin this morning; it was built over many months in lessons, after-school sessions, weekend revision and countless hours of independent study. Our incredible teachers designed and delivered an exceptional revision programme, giving students the knowledge, confidence and support they needed. They knew the students as individuals, understood where they needed help and continued to challenge them to achieve more. I am enormously grateful to them.
It was particularly exciting to see so many students confirming that they will continue their education with us. More students from this year group will return to Torquay Academy Sixth Form than ever before. We know that they will bring the same wonderful attitude, ambition and commitment with them, and I am already looking forward to welcoming them back in just a few weeks’ time.
We also welcomed our Year 10 students into school to collect their GCSE results in Religious Studies and Statistics. Sitting these examinations a year early was a significant challenge, and they rose to it brilliantly. It was wonderful to see the pride on their faces as they celebrated what they had achieved. They can now begin Year 11 with two GCSEs completed and with the confidence that comes from knowing what their hard work can produce.
Today belonged to our students, but it was also a celebration of the teachers, support staff and families who have encouraged them throughout their journey. We could not be prouder of our Year 11 and Year 10 students. Their results are a testament to their effort, character and determination, and we are incredibly excited to see what they go on to achieve.
Congratulations to the Class of 2028. You have been magnificent.
