The Grange School celebrates another great year for A level results
This summer’s achievements once again showcases the strength of teaching, support, and student determination across the school: 25% of all grades awarded were A*, and almost 82% of grades were at A*-B.
These results place our students among the top performers nationally and represent a continuation of our strong track record of academic excellence securing our place in the top 10% of schools for value-added at A level.
Headteacher Dr Lorraine Earps paid tribute to the class of 2025:
“We are absolutely delighted to be able to celebrate these fantastic results with the Class of 25 today. They are a testament to the hard work and determination of students and teachers alike and the wonderful relationships between them.”
Beyond their academic work, the Year 13 cohort has made a significant contribution to the wider life of the school. Many students represented The Grange in sporting competitions at county and national level, staged memorable drama productions, contributed to vibrant musical performances, and championed important causes through charity and community projects.
“What is particularly impressive is that these outstanding results have been achieved against a backdrop of full immersion into the broader life of the school. Amongst our top results are young people who have national representation in their chosen sport, or who perform with high level youth orchestras or who have taken leading roles in the theatre demonstrating that education is not just about exam results” explained Dr Earps.
Among this year’s standout achievers is James Ferguson, who achieved an A* in Business, an A in English Literature and a B in Drama. James, who joined The Grange Junior School in Year 3, is heading to the University of Manchester to study an academic Drama course - a passion he has nurtured throughout his school career. He most recently played Ed Boone in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, a performance which took place between his mock exams and final A Levels. James credits the school with sparking and supporting his love of acting:
“I wouldn’t have these results today if it wasn't for The Grange School. I put in a lot of hard graft but the support was incredible. I just love drama, and I found that love right here, it feels amazing to do something that comes naturally.”
Em Newbitt achieved an outstanding set of results with four A*s in Chemistry, Physics, Maths, and Further Maths. Em told us "I did a lot of revision. It was just past paper after past paper. My desk is full of them." Despite waking at 3am with her results on her mind, Em described them simply as “Fab.” She will take up her first-choice place at the University of Sheffield to study Engineering, with ambitions to work in the sustainability sector.
Em has also been a key figure in school life, serving as Head of Gowy House and performing in school musicals - an experience she treasures, “we are so lucky to have the opportunities in the theatre here.” Today’s celebrations will include a family meal with her sister Charlotte, herself a Grange alumna from two years ago.
Creativity shone brightly for Evan Tenner, who achieved A* in Art, A* in Biology, and B in German - including full marks in his Art A Level. Far from finding the exam stressful, Evan said:
“I'm not sure why, but I absolutely loved my art exam. It was 15 hours. But 15 hours doing one thing I love”.
He will soon move to Reading to study Ecology and Conservation, and told us he plans to keep his artistic talents honed by joining university societies, and is already considering a future Masters in Fine Art.
Sporting and academic excellence combined for Abdelrahman Farag, who earned A* in Biology, A in Chemistry, and A in Physics. He will study Medicine at the University of Bristol, where he has also secured a prestigious Sports Scholarship. Abdelrahman represented Team GB in Czechia last year, winning bronze in La Coupe de la Jeunesse as part of the men’s quad. He is eager to join the university rowing club and trial for the U23 team:
“The coaching team at The Grange rowing club have been fantastic, and the teachers so supportive. What I’ve learnt from competitive sport has helped me manage stress when it comes to study: knowing when the nerves can be beneficial and when to just stop worrying!”
Tahlia Bowcock, who joined The Grange at just four years old, achieved three As in Business, Psychology, and Sport. Her connection to the school continues as she will spend the next year as a netball coaching assistant before starting a Degree Apprenticeship in Business - a path she feels will suit her hands-on learning style:
“I feel that learning on the job and putting what I learn into practice rather than sitting in letcures will really work for me.”
Tahlia is also a medal-winning swimmer and, true to her active nature, learned two new sports - padel and squash - while on holiday this summer.
Finally, Skye Walker achieved A* in English Literature, A* in Religious Studies, and A in Latin. Having joined The Grange in Year 7 after being home-schooled, Skye is following in her mother’s footsteps by training as an early years’ teacher at the University of Worcester. She has been a vibrant presence in school productions, with a highlight role as Mrs Medlock in The Secret Garden, the school’s first-ever outdoor production, and has supported the school’s charitable initiatives. Reflecting on results day, she admitted:
“I surprised myself actually, I was not too nervous.”
The school anticipates that students will now progress to a wide range of exciting destinations, including prestigious universities, competitive apprenticeships, and professional careers. With their combination of talent, work ethic, and character, the class of 2025 is well-placed to make a positive impact whichever path they choose.
“Each and every one of our students today are leaving us ready to make a real difference to the world and we are excited to see where their journey will take them,” said Dr Earps.