The Next Chapter Begins for Ackworth’s GCSE Class of 2026
For Ackworth’s Year 11 students, collecting their GCSE results today marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. A large number of the year group will return in September to join Ackworth Sixth Form, continuing friendships, pursuing the subjects they enjoy and taking on new opportunities and responsibilities within the School.
Among them will be George, who achieved eight grade 9s and two grade 8s, and will study Economics, Politics and History at A-Level. Arley will also continue into Ackworth Sixth Form after securing seven grade 9s, one grade 8 and one grade 7. Alongside his studies, Arley has been part of our Football Academy and will study Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics for A-Level. Isobel also achieved an excellent set of results, securing two grade 9s, four grade 8s and three grade 7s, after joining Ackworth in Year 10. Next year, she will study Performing Arts at CAPA Wakefield. For Sahib, who joined Ackworth in 2014, the results mark another important step in a longer journey through the School. After achieving two grade 8s, seven grade 7s and one grade 6, Sahib will return in September to study Economics, Physics and Mathematics.
Their achievements are part of a strong set of results for the Class of 2026. Ackworth recorded an overall pass rate of 99.6%, with 30.8% of grades awarded at 9 – 7, 47.5% at 9 – 6 and 83.1% at 9 – 4. Grades 9 and 8 accounted for 16.9% of all results. There were some exceptional performances among our highest-achieving quarter of the year group. These students secured 73.2% of their grades at 9 – 7, including 45% at grades 9 – 8. More than nine in ten of their results were at grades 9 – 6.
Matthew Sanderson, Head of Year, has worked closely with the students throughout this important stage of their education.
“Results day always brings a mixture of excitement and nerves, because the grades mean something different to every student. For some, they confirm an outstanding academic performance. For others, they are the result of perseverance, increased confidence or an enormous amount of progress. This year group has brought a great deal to Ackworth. They are talented, good-humoured and supportive of one another, and it has been wonderful to watch them develop. I am proud of what each of them has achieved.”
Today also brought many successes that cannot be fully captured by the headline figures. Students have balanced their GCSE courses with demanding commitments in sport, music, drama and activities beyond School. Together, their results reflect many different abilities, ambitions and starting points. Those returning to Ackworth will move into a Sixth Form where they are already known by their teachers and are established members of the community. They will have the opportunity to study a wide choice of A-Level and BTEC courses while developing greater independence and preparing for university, apprenticeships and employment. For students moving elsewhere, today marks the end of their time at Ackworth, but not their connection with the School.
Martyn Beer, Head of Ackworth School, said:
“We challenge our students to make the very most of their individual talents and to measure success by more than a single set of grades. Today’s results include exceptional academic performances, significant personal progress and achievements that once may not have seemed possible. I congratulate the whole year group and thank the teachers, pastoral staff and families who have supported them. I am delighted that so many will be back with us in September, ready to bring their energy and talents to the Sixth Form, while those moving on do so with our warmest wishes and our full confidence in what they can achieve.”
Results day closes one part of the Class of 2026’s Ackworth story. For many, that story will continue here in September.
Applications for September 2027 entry to Ackworth School and Sixth Form are now open. To find out more or arrange a visit, please contact our Admissions Team at admissions@ackworthschool.com or call 01977 233621.
