Year 11 students at The Ramsey Academy, in Halstead, returned to collect their GCSE results, celebrating the strongest set of outcomes overall since before the pandemic. The school, which is on a journey of improvement, saw the number of students achieving a Grade 5 or above in English and maths rise by 23 per cent compared to last year. According to headteacher Christian Appleford, this achievement is expected to place the school among the most improved in the country this year.
Headteacher praises collective effort
Christian Appleford, who took over leadership of the school last September, said: "I am extremely proud of the achievements of students and the collective efforts of the entire school community." He added that the positive outcomes reflect the commitment, determination and hard work shown by students, as well as the unwavering dedication of staff in giving every student the best opportunity to succeed.
Appleford highlighted that the results include exceptional individual performances, with several students securing Grades 8 and 9. He also noted the achievements of students who exceeded their expected outcomes while overcoming significant personal challenges. "While we rightly celebrate our highest achievers, we are equally proud of those students who have surpassed expectations through their resilience and determination," he said.
Broader school improvement and star student story
The strong examination outcomes form part of a broader picture of improvement across the school. Over the past academic year, the school has successfully reduced suspensions, improved attendance, and implemented targeted support to maximise student progress. Appleford stated: "These results do not happen by chance. They are the product of high expectations, strong relationships and a relentless focus on supporting students to achieve their potential."
One student, Angel, used her GCSEs as a welcome distraction after the sudden loss of her mother, Karen, to lung condition COPD earlier this year. After taking time away from lessons, she collected three Grade 9s, two Grade 8s, three Grade 7s and one Grade 5. She commented: "I feel so, so, so excited! ... My mum would be so happy with me today." The 16-year-old, from Halstead, now living with her two older sisters, is heading to Colchester Sixth Form to study biology, chemistry and psychology, with ambitions of becoming a doctor, dentist or vet.
Top-performing students and head boy's ambitions
Neha, the school's highest performing girl, collected two Grade 9s, two Grade 8s, three Grade 7s and two Grade 6s. She thanked her teachers for helping her secure top results, saying: "I have got these results because of the hard work I have put in, but it is also down to the teachers around me who have helped me so much for the past five years." She will study biology, chemistry and psychology, with ambitions of going into research or animal psychology.
Head boy Max, from Earls Colne, collected one Grade 9, five Grade 8s and three Grade 6s. He noted that his leadership role helped him develop public speaking skills, which he hopes to use in a career in the civil service. He will study politics, modern history and economics at Colchester Sixth Form. Max said: "My heart lifted when I opened my results – it was really great. ... It feels like I have got the right grades and can now push ahead."
