A-LEVEL RESULTS: Ormiston Sudbury Academy students rise to the challenge
Ormiston Sudbury Academy rejoiced after more than 80 per cent of this year's A-levels were graded A* to C, with particular success in vocational courses.
The school saw 61 per cent of its Year 13 students secure the top grades of A* to A across all subjects, as they prepare to head off to a range of universities, with 12 offered unconditional places.
Headteacher Caroline Wilson told the Free Press: "I am happy that the graft the students have put in over the last two years has paid dividends.
"I think it's a testament to the commitment of the staff and students, who have completely risen to the challenge. The staff know the children very well and offer individual bespoke support, because we are all aware there are more stresses and strains than ever before.
"I'm very happy, particularly with the results of vocational courses, and we have got lots of students going to quite prestigious universities."
There was an especially strong performance from the performing arts department, where 100 per cent of all students received a Distinction * or Distinction, rising to the challenge of the new BTEC specifications.
Among the top performers are head girl Cerys Wrigley-Moss, who will be attending the renowned East 15 Acting School in Essex, after earning a Distinction * and Distinction – equivalent of an A* and A – in BTEC acting.
"The acting department has been amazing," Cerys said. "I think if I had been anywhere else, I wouldn't have had the experiences that I've had here. Coming here was definitely a big factor in choosing to do acting."
Meanwhile, head boy Cameron Cade was among the cohort of music students who produced the department's most successful performance at A-level ever, as he gained a Distinction *, earning himself a place at the University of East Anglia in Norwich.
"I was relieved," Cameron said. "It has been a phenomenal experience. My teacher is one of the best I've ever had and I will really miss her."
Tyler Schmidt, whose grades included a Distinction * in acting, a Merit in food science and a C in law, explained he was "over the moon" with his results, and will now go to Canterbury Christchurch University to train to become a police officer.
"I have loved it here," Tyler said. "I couldn't have got these results without the support of all the staff."
Peter Barker revealed he will study joint honours in pop music and sociology at Derby University, after achieving Distinction * grades in both music and acting, as well as a C in sociology.
He said: "It has been a lot of ups and downs, and there was a bit of panic, but overall, I have enjoyed it, and I wouldn't change it for anything."
Leo Cox, head of the OSA performing arts faculty, stated the department's top grades reflected the hard work of both the students and their teachers.
"It cements our place at the forefront of performing arts in the county," he said. "It's a huge strength of the school.
"We place high expectations on our students, and they have high expectations of themselves. We are exceptionally proud of how hard they have worked every day."
