Staff and students at John Kyrle High School have been celebrating the news that the school’s performance at A Level in 2018 has put it into the top 5% of schools and colleges nationally. Nigel Griffiths, headteacher at John Kyrle, was informed that the school’s performance, which was measured against over 2000 schools and colleges in England and Wales, was truly outstanding. The 62% A*-B that students gained in 2018, together with its equally strong performance over the past three years, has placed the school in the top 5% of schools and colleges nationally.

Mr Griffiths has informed parents and carers about the school’s performance and thanked them for their support. Also, in addition to congratulating his students, Mr Griffiths thanked his staff and trustees for their commitment, hard work and dedication to the young people at the school. Mr Griffiths  noted, ‘Within our mantra of ‘Happy, Healthy, Successful’ we aim to improve the life chances of young people. We want students to enjoy school, make friends, be tolerant, laugh, learn, persevere and give of their best.’

Chris Baird, Director of Children and Families at Herefordshire Council, wrote to Mr Griffiths and Denise Strutt, chair of trustees, to congratulate students and staff on ‘this fantastic achievement’ and ‘exceptional performance’.

He said good examination results give young people the passport they need for a range of choices and possibilities that enable them to follow their dreams.

Mr Baird noted, ‘Strong examination results are achieved though excellent teaching and the hard work of students and staff. This does not, however,

happen in isolation, but is a product of a school environment where teachers know and value their students and where pastoral support for students and a wide range of curriculum opportunities and experiences allows them to be happy and successful.”  

In notifying Mr Griffiths of the school’s success, Mary Ahern, Chief Executive officer of the A-Level Performance Service wrote: “This is a fantastic effort and well worth celebrating, keep up the good work.”

Mr Griffiths said he has sent information on John Kyrle’s A-level success to partner primary school headteachers. He said that without the excellent foundations gained at primary school, students would not be able to flourish at secondary school. He thanked all primary school leaders, governors and staff for their excellent work in supporting young people in the community.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.