GCSE results are a credit to pupils’ dedication and hard work

The Learning Community Trust says it is ‘delighted’ with the GCSE results across its schools in Telford & Wrekin – with maths achievement improving across every single one of its sites.

There was an increase in high grade passes of 7-9 across the whole Trust, which runs secondary schools including Hadley Learning Community, Ercall Wood, Charlton, New Road Academy, and Burton Borough in Newport.

Paul Roberts, the Trust’s chief executive, said: “We have seen significant improvements across many subject areas, particularly in English, maths, and science. These achievements are a testament to the exceptional hard work and dedication of our pupils and staff. 

“We are deeply thankful for the unwavering support from families. Together, as a united school community, we’ve accomplished something truly special that will enable our young people to achieve their dreams.”

At Hadley Learning Community, there were particularly big rises in science achievement, including a 100% pass rate in chemistry. Art, engineering, English and maths were also among the strongest performers.

Ercall Wood Academy in Wellington saw its English high grades double from last year, while science saw the largest number of top level grade 9 passes. There were also increases in history, drama, maths, English and ethics grades.

Principal Nick Murphy said: “In what has been an incredible year for all involved, I am extremely proud to see the successes today. 

“This is testament to the students’ hard work, determination and effort – but also highlights those fantastic student and teacher relationships which show that, when we all work together, something truly special can emerge.”

Burton Borough School in Newport’s headlines included English language achievement above national averages compared with last year, plus improved pass rates in maths, physics, science, and physical education.

Principal Caroline Bedford said she was ‘incredibly proud’ of the students, adding: “They reflect not only their hard work and determination, but also the strength of our school community and the values that define us: ambitious, proud, and caring. 

“Our students have shown what it means to be truly ambitious by setting high goals, persevering through challenges, and striving for excellence in every subject. Their achievements are a testament to their commitment and the belief that with effort and support, anything is possible.”

Charlton School in Wellington saw science grade 9 passes more than double on last year, with big increases in pass rates across other subjects such as maths, food technology, ethics, and photography. 

Andy McNaughton, the school’s outgoing principal, said: “We are incredibly proud of the results this year group have achieved.  

“Due to the Covid pandemic they were the year group that were unable to finish their primary school education and they had a very disrupted start in Year 7, including missing out on induction activities.  

“They have shown huge resilience to overcome these challenges and achieve the best set of results the school has seen since the pandemic.”

New Road Academy in Wrockwardine Wood, which joined the Trust last year, saw across-the-board improvements, with ‘significant’ increases in maths and English, and 100% pass rates in several areas.

Paul Roberts added: “One of the highlights for me this year has been the impact of the Trust on New Road’s results, knowing the journey the school has been on. It has improved on every single educational measure prescribed by the Government.”

The Trust also runs Kickstart Academy, based in Priorslee, which supports students with behaviour concerns who are at risk of permanent exclusion, or permanently excluded from school.

It saw an 8% rise in overall pass rates, and principal Sarah Lewis said: “Each young person has faced unique challenges on their educational journey, and today is a testament to their resilience, determination, and hard work. 

“These results are not just grades on a page – they represent personal growth, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that every student can succeed when given the right support and opportunity.”