Students rise to challenge of tough exams

Schools were buzzing with excitement and anticipation as GCSE results were handed out across the city today (August 24).
Hummd Ghouri with his father Ahmed from BACA in Brighton getting his GCSE results (Photograph: Simon Dack / Vervate)Hummd Ghouri with his father Ahmed from BACA in Brighton getting his GCSE results (Photograph: Simon Dack / Vervate)
Hummd Ghouri with his father Ahmed from BACA in Brighton getting his GCSE results (Photograph: Simon Dack / Vervate)

And despite tougher exams, students achieved impressive results, the council said.

Year 11 students were praised as ‘pioneers’ by one headteacher, as they took on new exams in English and maths. Students are now given grades from 1 to 9 - with 4 being comparable to a ‘C’ in the old system, and 9 the best grade.

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In Brighton and Hove, 67 per cent of students achieved ‘good’ grades of 9 to 4 in both English and maths, with 78 per cent getting good grades in English, and 72 per cent in maths.

PACA principal Katie Scott and student Allyshia VallierPACA principal Katie Scott and student Allyshia Vallier
PACA principal Katie Scott and student Allyshia Vallier

Cllr Dan Chapman, chairman of the city council’s children committee, said: “The new GCSE assessment system is seen by most people as being tougher than before, and may well have made students feel even more anxious. However, I believe the results show they have done very well.

“These good results are due to the hard work and dedication of our students.”

Comparable national figures for the new measures will not be available until later in the year, the council said.

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Headteachers heaped praise on students for overcoming the tougher new exams.

Dr James Kilmartin, headteacher of Cardinal Newman Catholic School, said: “Our Year 11 students and their teachers have been true pioneers demonstrating great resilience and resourcefulness in responding to this challenge.”

Ashley Harrold, headteacher of Blatchington Mill, said: “To say they have excelled is an understatement – they have absolutely shone – we are so proud of them all.”

For results of individual schools, follow the links below:

Portslade Aldridge Community Academy

Brighton Aldridge Community Academy

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Hove Park

Cardinal Newman

Brighton College

Dorothy Stringer

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Blatchington Mill

More to follow.

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