Lockdown success for GCSE pupils at Hydesville Tower School

Pupils from Hydesville Tower School in Walsall are celebrating excellent GCSE results today, with 94% of all papers taken achieving a “good pass” or better at Grade 5+.

Most impressively, 52% of exam grades at Hydesville were awarded at Grade 7 or above with almost half the cohort securing 5 or more GCSEs at Grades 7-9 – the previous A grade equivalent. Almost a third of all exams were awarded Grades 8 or 9, the latter being the equivalent of an A** to show exceptional performance.

Success this year has been even more poignant for pupils due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The ‘no exam’ declaration has meant pupils who were due to sit GCSE exams this summer have received a centre-assessed grade in line with government directions.

Headmaster, Mr Honey, explains: “Although the last few days have been tumultuous for all concerned in education, we must not lose sight that these GCSE grades are a fitting reward for the efforts of the pupils prior to lockdown. It was not their choice that this occurred, and many were disappointed not to have the chance to demonstrate their full potential. We are delighted to celebrate with them today, even whilst being aware of safety requirements, and know that they are ready for the next stage of their education journey.”

The global lockdown didn’t stop Hydesville pupils excelling and results in specific subject areas this year were exceptional.  In the three separate sciences, 85% of grades were 7 or above. In Business Studies, a third of the cohort attained grade 9, and there was high levels of success in Maths, Religious Studies, History, Drama and Spanish, where the majority of pupils secured grade 7 or above.

 All of the Year 11 cohort at Hydesville are to be congratulated for a superb set of results.  In particular, Rory, Shah, Landon, Rachna and Abdullah each collected seven or more of the highest grades – 8s and 9s.

Miss Lauren Jenkins, Head of Senior School, remarked: “It is wonderful to congratulate the class of 2020 for their outstanding achievements. Their tenacity and resilience in dealing with the situation says a great deal for the character that is developed through Hydesville. We have been proud to see how this year group has grown in confidence, maturity and stature as the years have passed, and wish them well for the next steps.” 

Hydesville Tower School, situated on Broadway North in Walsall, is proudly non-selective and is fully committed to helping pupils achieve the very best results possible.

Mr Warren Honey, Headmaster, added: “It is a pleasure to celebrate with our staff and pupils who have worked so hard to achieve these results. My congratulations go to all of our GCSE pupils and I wish them every success as they take their next steps into post-16 education and beyond. These results provide a clear indication that the personalised approach taken at Hydesville gives every child the opportunity to flourish and fulfil their potential.”

For those wishing to find out more about Hydesville, please visit the School’s website: hydesville.cognita.network to find out about forthcoming open events.  Alternatively, contact the Admission Team on 01922 624374 or email info@hydesville.com