Another strong GCSE year for Cardinal Newman Catholic High School

Cheers and celebrations were the order of the day at Cardinal Newman Catholic High School, part of St Thomas Catholic Academies Trust, as this year's GCSE students received a set of results that continue the school's strong, consistent track record for excellence.

70% of students achieved five or more standard passes, while 65% achieved this benchmark including both English and Maths – results that closely mirror last year's strong performance.

English and Science were particular highlights, with 68% of students securing a grade 4 or above in both subjects, and strong numbers of students going on to achieve the higher grades 7-9 across the board. 98% of students were entered for both English and Maths, underlining the breadth of the school's core curriculum offer, and every single student left with at least one qualification.

Helen Fay, headteacher, said: "I could not be prouder of our students. These results are the product of real determination and resilience – young people who have worked hard, kept going through challenges, and backed themselves to succeed. Watching them open their results this morning and seeing that hard work rewarded has been one of the best parts of my year.

"What comes through so clearly is the character of this year group. They've supported one another, pushed themselves, and shown a real appetite to do well – not just in the classroom, but in how they've grown as young people. I know they are leaving us ready and equipped for whatever comes next."

Alongside strength in the core subjects, 58 students also achieved the English Baccalaureate, with 98% entry rates in English, maths and science, and strong performances too in humanities and languages.

Helen added: "None of this happens by accident. It's the result of students giving everything they've got, staff going above and beyond every single day, and families providing unwavering support at home. That partnership is what makes Cardinal Newman such a special place to learn.

"I want every student to know how proud we are of them – not just for their grades, but for the resilience, effort and determination they've shown to get here. Whatever path they take next, whether that's joining us in Sixth Form or moving on elsewhere, they do so with the skills and confidence to thrive."