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Students praised for ‘grit and determination

November 19, 2023
in Education
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Students praised for ‘grit and determination

MELKSHAM Oak Community School has praised its A-level and GCSE students for their ‘resilience’ and ‘incredible’ exam results, despite the national picture showing that grades had dropped back to where they were in 2019.

A-level and post-16 students collected their exam results on Thursday 17th August and the school praised them for their ‘resilience’ and hard work.

Three students scored two As and one A*, whilst another achieved an A in economics; a distinction and distinction* in BTEC business; and a distinction* in sports CTEC.

A-level student, Ella, who scored two As and one A* said, “I plan now to go to Cardiff to study English literature and creative writing. I am quite excited to go on to the next step, it’s scary too, but it’ll be good!”

Another student, Abby said, “I got what I wanted! I am pleased with it and I am going to Bath Spa University to do primary school teaching in September.”

In addition to securing places at universities, other students have also secured employment and apprenticeships.

This was the first time this year-group of students had sat formal exams, as results in the previous two years were determined by teacher assessments as exams could not be held, due to the Covid-19 restrictions at the time.

Head of sixth form, Steve Phillips said, “We knew they would be more challenging exams than the last couple of years. We are massively proud of them and their resilience that shows how hard they worked.”

The following week, Year 11 students celebrated as they collected their GCSE grades on Thursday 24th August.

New principal Haris Hussain said, “We have been impressed to see how they have persevered over their courses and they have achieved some incredible grades.

“We have had some fantastic results this year and despite the national picture being challenging, we would like to highlight the following examples of success: Three students have done incredibly well, scoring grade 7 and above in every subject. Our average grade in GCSE art and design was above a grade 6 and many of our subjects have increased the % of students scoring a Grade 5 and above.

“Our efforts are now entirely focused on supporting students into their next best steps in education. We look forward to welcoming back those students who wish to follow an academic or applied pathway into the Melksham Oak Community School Sixth Form. We are open to new joiners and will be considering applications as received.

“Our Year 11 cohort have had to show considerable grit and determination in the run up to the examinations. As ever, the efforts of the entire Melksham Oak Community School, particularly the parents and the staff, has given students the best possible chances this year and we congratulate all on their tireless efforts!”

The school also expressed gratitude towards their parents, local communities, and their school staff for their contributions to their students’ education.

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