The last minute government decision to award youngsters across the country their teacher assessments has ensured the fairest possible outcomes for students at Rye College who receive their GCSE results today and, despite much uncertainty, the grades reflect continued improvement across key measures.

In the basic of measure of students passing both English and maths, standard passes rose from 57% last year to 66% this year and strong passes rose from 38% to 45%. Both rises mean the quality of the average grade received by each student continues to rise and more students leave passing all their subjects than ever before.

Head of College, Dom Downes, said:

“Although this cohort were not afford the opportunity to sit their final exams, the grades awarded best represent the hard work and determination shown by all our students throughout the course of their studies. This is the fairest way forward – they are to be congratulated on their achievements.

"In the face of great uncertainty, I have total sympathy for all they have had to manage. Their resilience will serve them well as they move on to the next stage of their education.”

A cause for celebration was the increased number of Grade 9s awarded: the highest grade available. Ursula Robbins achieved six such grades in English Language and Literature, Maths, Biology, Physics and Geography; Keziah Seal five Grade 9s in English language and Literature, Biology Chemistry and History; Katy Downs four Grade 9s in English language and Literature, Art and Photography; whilst Gabriella Law and Sean Lane achieved two Grade 9s in English language and Literature, and Maths and History respectively.

A significant number of students are still awaiting results from BTEC Music, Engineering and Sport Science.

Whilst the government has suspended the school accountability regime for this year, leaders at the college are confident these outcomes demonstrate the ongoing improvement anticipated earlier in the year allowing students to progress on to their desired destinations.