The Grange pupils overcome Covid challenge for 'remarkable' GCSEs

Following record-breaking A-level results, staff are once again celebrating after seeing two-thirds of all GCSE entries graded 7 to 9.

Head teacher Lorraine Earps couldn’t be prouder of the results, which better last year’s.

She said: “This is a remarkable set of results from this year's group.

“They have always had a great enthusiasm for school life but as GCSE examinations approached, they showed notable dedication.

“I am so pleased these efforts have yielded dividends for them today.

“We are proud of every one of them today and I know that their results will provide them a springboard for future success, whatever they put their mind to.”

Head of year Kelly Smith added: “This year group have overcome many challenges, both personal and those related to starting secondary school during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The GCSE class of 2024 have shown great determination and resilience to approach these examinations. I could not be prouder of their performance today.”

Shlok Ramakrishnan (Image: Supplied)

Among the high-fliers is Shlok Ramakrishnan who achieved a clean sweep of top grades (9).

When asked what his advice would be for the incoming year 10s, he said: “Study hard right from the start, don’t wait until close to exams.

“For me I’m really pleased and a little surprised with the 9 in further maths but that shows the hard work paid off.”

Shlok is looking forward to studying biology, chemistry, mathematics and further mathematics at A-level.

With a fifth of all GCSE entries at The Grange being awarded grade 9, Shlok is one of many students pocketing top grades in the GCSE class of 2024.

Rory O’Keefe (Image: Supplied)

Alongside his host of grade 9s, Rory O’Keefe has further cause for cheer as he achieved full marks in his GCSE mathematics, setting him up nicely as he prepares to study maths, Further maths, chemistry and physics at A-level.

“I’m especially happy with some of my grades,” Rory said.

“My 9 in geography was a nice surprise and I’m proud of the 7 in Spanish as I have dyslexia.

“I’ve had so much support here since starting in year seven.”

There has also been huge success for the school’s creative arts department, with more than a third achieving grades 8 or 9.

Laurel McCarthy said: “I’ve been at The Grange since year two and have loved the atmosphere here, and sense of community.

“I think I’m the first person to study art, textiles and graphics at the same time for GCSE as they are really coursework-heavy subjects, so to get a 9 in all three feels great.”

Laurel McCarthy (Image: Supplied)

Meanwhile, Joe Eglin has excelled in the sporting arena, being part of the Stoke City football academy while studying for his GCSEs.

“I’m buzzing. Studying alongside my football commitments has been very hard work, having to catch up on studies in the evenings and at weekends,” he said.

“The secret is making sure you plan in some downtime too, pace it and take breaks.

“Some of my favourite memories are the times when I’ve got to play football with my friends at school, being able to enjoy that together.”

Joe is staying at The Grange Sixth Form to study biology, economics and psychology.

Joe Eglin (Image: Supplied)

He will be joined by Zeta Mackfall, who will study mathematics, further mathematics, business and economics once she has finished celebrating.

“After A-levels, I’m hoping to go on to uni and study something maths or economics based. But first I’m off to Leeds Festival to celebrate” said Zeta.

Head of sixth form Kat Huntriss can’t wait to welcome the latest cohort.

She said: “We are excited to welcome the future class of 2026 into the sixth form.

“Whilst we know their dedication will see them follow in the footsteps of past students and achieve superbly at A-level, we are also looking forward to the wider contribution that they will make.

“With such an array of talent, whether that be intellectual, sporting, creative or performing, the future is certainly bright.”

Zeta Mackfall (Image: Supplied)