GCSE excitement and pride 2025
There were smiles, cheers, and even a few happy tears at Hanley Castle High School this morning as students collected their long-awaited GCSE results. There was real excitement and a sense of pride as students, parents, and staff came together to celebrate the stunning achievements of the 2025 cohort, with around a fifth of all passes awarded at the top grades 7, 8 or 9.
Maintaining the high standards set in recent years, in English and English literature over 80% of students achieved grade four or higher, with nearly three quarters of students gaining passes in both English and mathematics, and two or more good GCSEs in science. Nearly a quarter of students achieved at least grade 5s in the English Baccalaureate subjects – well above local and national averages for recent years.
Some of the top performers this year included: Bridgid Shaw with five grade 9s and three grade 8s; Alice Bayley with three grade 9s and five grade 8s; Daisy McCleary with three grade 9s, four grade 8s and two grade 7s; Connie Rowe with three grade 9s, three grade 8s and three grade 7s; and Charlie Dodd with two grade 9s, six grade 8s and two grade 7s.
Headteacher Mark Stow commented:
"We are absolutely thrilled with the results of our students this year. Many have earned a string of outstanding grades but just as importantly, we are celebrating every student who has faced challenges, worked hard, and come through with results that reflect their dedication to their studies. Today is about recognising our students’ effort, achievement and progress — and we couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of them."
Connie Rowe, Ada Bryant, Daisy McCleary
top picture: Harry Clifford, Alice Bailey, Tom Bassett