In total, 45 per cent of students studying languages, ancient and modern, were awarded a grade 9; more than 41 per cent of separate science grades were a grade 9 and 60 per cent of religious studies grades awarded were a grade 9. A 100% pass rate (9-4) was achieved in English literature and mathematics, amongst many other subjects.
Pupils celebrating included Charlotte R, who achieved nine grade 9s and a grade 7 in further maths.
Charlotte, who has been awarded an Academic Scholarship and an Art Scholarship on entry to Sixth Form, said: “I can’t believe it at all! I really wasn’t expecting the grades that I have and it’s all thanks to the school. There’s such a small, close-knit community at Durham High School that you can’t find elsewhere. The teachers here are like friends and really care about your well-being.
“I’m excited to stay on at the Sixth Form and study mathematics, biology, and fine art.”
Freya F said: “I’m feeling great about my GCSEs and I’m so proud. I’ve loved being at Durham High over the years and being constantly supported. We’re all really close to the teachers, so it was always easy to get specific, tailored help, or talk whenever we needed to.”
Hannah S was also pleased with her four grade 9s, three 8s, a 7, and a 6.
She said: “I’m absolutely ecstatic. I’m studying English literature, history, textiles, and politics at A Level, alongside an EPQ. The individual teaching sessions have been amazing in helping me prepare for my GCSEs.”
Harriet L was overjoyed with her seven grade 9s, two 8s and a 7.
She said: “I’m really happy! The teachers have been so helpful and I’m now looking forward studying physics, mathematics, chemistry, and further maths in my A Levels.”
Two students faced incredibly tough times during recent years and worked hard despite this to achieve fantastic outcomes.
Charlotte W gained six GCSEs after struggling with epilepsy and having brain surgery to remove part of her frontal lobe.
After being warned by medical professionals that GCSEs may be beyond her capability due to her epilepsy, Charlotte fought back from her life-threatening illness and is celebrating her outstanding achievement today. She was particularly pleased with her grade 6 in music.
Charlotte said: “I’m really proud of myself, as I didn’t think I’d get those results or pass my exams.
“The support of the teachers was incredible, especially Mrs Docherty for helping me believe in myself and giving me confidence. Mrs Lee, Mrs Hill and Mrs Lonsdale were also really important to me with little motivational comments to make sure I didn’t give up or lose focus at any point.”
Faith E performed incredibly well after losing her older sister, Poppy, in August last year when her heart stopped suddenly.
Today, her proud parents spoke passionately about their pride as Faith’s hard work and dedication, coupled with incredible pastoral support from her teachers, was rewarded with a strong set of results.
The school has supported Faith and the family throughout their journey and has held fundraising events for the charity launched in her memory, Poppy’s Light Foundation, which offers support to children and young people with inherited cardiac conditions.
Staff and pupils were delighted to see Faith gain a string of excellent GCSEs today including a grade 9 in art.
Faith said: “I’m really happy with my grades – I can’t believe it. Durham High School has been amazing throughout my GCSEs. I lost my sister, Poppy, last year, and didn’t think I’d even be able to pass my exams, let alone get the grades that I have. I’m so thankful to the staff for their constant support and care and wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.”
Two Year 10 students, Joy H and Nada H, were also celebrating today after securing top grades in GCSEs that they sat a year early. The girls both gained a grade 9 in their respective Chinese and Arabic GCSEs.
Michelle Hill, Headmistress at Durham High School, said: “Many congratulations go to our hardworking students who have produced another set of wonderful results at Durham High, particularly those who have battled against the odds to achieve these grades.
“This year group began their secondary school journey as the Year 7 Covid cohort, facing challenges no other students have experienced at this transitional point, yet they have shown resilience, determination and a wonderful spirit. Today’s celebrations are a true reflection of their hard work and the bright futures that lie ahead.
“My thanks go to our dedicated staff who have shown the breadth of our teaching excellence, the unwavering support of parents, and I look forward to seeing many of our pupils go on to study successfully in our Sixth Form from September.”
