There was cause for celebration at Merchant Taylors’ today as pupils received an outstanding set of GCSE results. An impressive 43% of all grades were the top mark of a grade 9 (A**), the highest since the return of standard grading post-Covid. Grade 9 was the most common grade awarded to this cohort of pupils.
Overall, 71% of grades were awarded at grades 9-8 (previously A*) and 88% at 9-7 (previously A*-A).
Eight pupils achieved a full sweep of grade 9s in all ten of their GCSE subjects, while 76 pupils achieved eight or more grades at 9-7.
Many departments enjoyed notable success. An impressive 64% of Maths examinations were awarded a grade 9, with 99% of the year group achieving a 9-7. In the Sciences, Chemistry achieved 55% grade 9s, Biology 64% and Physics with 56%. Greek returned 54% grade 9s, while Latin saw 100% of grades at 9-7. RS achieved 47% at grade 9 and History 42% at grade 9.
Head Master, Simon Everson, offered his congratulations to all the boys:
“It was wonderful to see the joyful celebrations this morning. These results reflect the remarkable dedication and talent of our boys, supported every step of the way by their teachers.
“Of course, exam grades are only part of the story. Just as important is the way our boys embrace the wider life of the School – combining scholarship with sport, music, drama and service. As they move into Sixth Form, they do so as well-rounded young men ready to seize every opportunity ahead.”
The boys reflected on their success:
Albert V. who achieved a clean sweep of 9s, said: “It’s a great feeling to know that your work has paid off. You don’t quite realise at the time but when you open the paper, it’s all worth it.”
Nicholas N. who achieved all 9s and an 8 said: “If I could talk to my Year 9 self, I’d tell them that if you work hard, it’ll sort itself out. I’m looking forward to Sixth Form and delving into my specialist subjects.”
Pranay P. who also received a clean sweep of 9s, said: “I’m really happy with my results. I knew I’d put in the work, and the teachers’ support along with my friends’ support has been amazing throughout the last couple of years.”
