STAFF and students are celebrating their efforts after recording the best A level results in years as a school’s plan to further improve learning starts to take hold.
Barnard Castle School saw the number of A* grades double and 100 per cent pass rates in ancient history, English literature, Latin, further maths, German, Spanish, PE, RS, BTEC sport and digital media.
Almost a quarter of the students secured A* and A grades, 75 per cent gained A*- C and the overall pass rate rose to 97 per cent.
In maths 64 per cent gained A-A* and almost 70 per cent of the students who completed the extended project qualification received an A or A*.
Headmaster David Cresswell said: “I am incredibly proud of our students. This year’s results represent a significant step forward on last year and are a testament to the commitment, hard work and character our young people have shown.
“The doubling of A* grades, alongside strong improvements across the board, has come through a genuine partnership between students and staff. Our teachers – from subject specialists to tutors and housemasters/housemistresses – have gone above and beyond, with initiatives like the Academic Boost programme helping sixth formers strike the right balance in their studies.
“We make no apology for our broad, inclusive entry. With the right guidance, every student can thrive. These results are part of a long-term plan to combine academic ambition with character-building, ensuring that every Barney student leaves us with both the results and the resilience to embrace the opportunities ahead.”
Starting his Barney journey in Prep School Charles Appleyard flourished to gain four A*s in chemistry, physics, maths and further maths, while balancing being deputy head prefect, academic scholar and highly active Dale House member.
The 18-year-old, who will study engineering at Durham University but stay in touch with the school through a tutoring scheme, said: “I joined Barney in Year 3 and embraced everything it offered, from music and drama to sport and academics. In my final year, I was able to focus on my studies while still enjoying the full Barney experience, thanks to the unwavering support of teachers whose academic guidance and pastoral care are a true credit to the school.”
Joining Barnard Castle School in Sixth Form, Oliver Stanley became a member of the Falcons Rugby Academy. Despite sustaining an injury that curtailed his on-field ambitions, Oliver continued to shine academically, achieving impressive A, A*, A* grades in biology, chemistry and maths.
He said: “Breaking my collarbone the summer before the season was a big setback in terms of rugby and I was obviously disappointed as everything on the pitch had been going so well. But it gave me the opportunity to really focus on my A-Levels. I turned that initial disappointment into motivation to perform academically while still supporting the team from the sidelines.”
Joining Barney in Year 9, Matilda Page became head girl and a role model for students.
She achieved A, A*, B in English literature, history and French. She said: “Being head girl taught me that true leadership starts with leading yourself. To lead a team well, you need candour, responsibility and the self-awareness to prioritise your own growth.
“After disappointing mocks, everyone rallied around me when they saw I was struggling with revision strategies and balancing my role with my academics. The support was unwavering, and I wouldn’t be sitting here looking at these amazing results without the people who helped me – my teachers, friends, and family.”
Sport Scholar Izzy Brown combined exceptional academic achievement with a strong commitment to school life. She earned A*, A*, B grades in ancient history, PE and physics, while excelling in athletics, particularly long-distance running.
She said: “Leading Bowes House over the past year has been a true honour and privilege. I hope I’ve been both a positive and approachable role model for the girls. I’ve learned so much along the way and am incredibly grateful for their endless enthusiasm and kindness.”
Izzy is deferring her place at Newcastle University to study Law in order to take up a work placement at Queen Mary’s School, Topcliffe, gaining valuable experience supporting both the boarding house and the sports department.