Record number of top grades for Berkhamsted’s A-level students

Record number of top grades for Berkhamsted’s A-level students

17 August 2018

A-level students at Berkhamsted School receiving their results can be proud of their efforts within the classroom with 91% achieving A*-C.  It is the highest number of A*/A grades and A* to B grades in the School’s 477 year history. Over 40% of students gained A* and A grades. 

Richard Backhouse, the Principal said “It has been an exciting and fulfilling year for Berkhamsted students who have worked hard to achieve excellent results adapting to the more challenging demands of the reformed A-levels.  Their achievement though has not only been within the classroom, our cohort this year continued to display successes on the sports field, in the theatre and through their commitment to serving others with their charitable efforts.”

“Many of our pupils have also managed to achieve significant grades for their Extended Project Qualification, with 93% achieving A*-B in addition to their A-level results.  This is an outstanding achievement considering the many hours of research, study and practical assessments our students dedicate to achieving their EPQ grade above and beyond their other subjects.  Experience that places them in good stead for the next step in their academic journey.”

Martin Walker, Headmaster of Sixth, paid tribute to them: “This is a very pleasing set of results in addition to the many other commitments that our students become engaged with during their time at Sixth Form.”

“There are individuals who are currently receiving great reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe with their play ‘The Miser’; over 80 of our Year 13 students volunteered for an hour a week between November and March in local primary schools, charities, charity shops and care homes. Finally many of our students took the opportunity to be part of the Duke of Edinburgh scheme and over 126 Gold expeditions were taken this year.  As one student commented, “these activities offer the opportunity to get out of the classroom and focus on other skills to help prepare for life.”

Head Girl Eloise Groves achieved A*, A*, A*, A in English Literature, French, Art and Maths. The keen Lacrosse player, singer and talented artist who won the Shine Award for the best illustration for a magazine cover is now looking forward to reading English at Cambridge University.

With five academically exceptional applications for every place available at Cambridge, it takes more than just grades to stand out.

Eloise said “If you manage your time effectively, you can really make the most of Berkhamsted School. Music, sport, DofE and INK (student magazine) were all memorable parts of Sixth Form life for me, as well as my studies. Some of my favourite moments were lived during the many House competitions.”

Edmund Wilson achieved A*, A*, A*, D1 (equivalent to a high A*) in Maths, Politics, History and Philosophy. 

Edmund recognises that securing his place at the University of Cambridge took years of hard work and was helped by excellent teaching and the support of the school community.

He will study Human, Social and Political Sciences having achieved impeccable A-level results.

Edmund said “Berkhamsted has provided us with a plethora of activities and opportunities ranging from musical ensembles and thrilling theatrical productions to gigs and concerts. Additional lectures and academic opportunities such as the Extended Project Qualification have helped me discover my intellectual passions. I now look forward to seeing where this next exciting stage leads me. I also hope to continue performing in musical and theatrical productions as these experiences are incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.”

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