News & Headteacher Blogs

148 students sat A Level examinations or BTECs at The Downs School this year and once again the students have achieved an outstanding set of results, reflecting the real dedication they have shown to their studies, as well as the incredible resilience they have shown in sitting their first formal exams and assessments after the disruption of the pandemic.  An impressive 13% of entries gained A* grades, 41% A*-A grades, 73% A*- B grades and 92% A*-C grades.  At BTEC 58% of entries gained a Distinction*-Distinction. The A*-B results are even more outstanding because they are actually higher than last year’s Teacher Assessed Grades.

Headteacher Chris Prosser said, ‘Congratulations to all our students on achieving such an incredible set of results, in what has been a really challenging two years.  The resilience they have shown under such conditions is remarkable.  They are all exceptional, inspiring and talented young people and we couldn’t be prouder of them.  My biggest pleasure is knowing that all our students are fully equipped to achieve great things in their chosen destinations, whether that will be university, apprenticeships or employment; I look forward to hearing about their future successes’.

Head of Sixth Form Pete Hogan said, ‘These are amazing results which all the students should be incredibly proud of. It cannot be underestimated the impact of not having sat their GCSE exams and having experienced a period of online learning during Year 12. The collective positive ethos has always been impressive in this wonderful cohort of students, and it has been a pleasure to be their Head of Sixth Form over the last two years. Their hard work, courage, and sheer ambition have paid off.  I know that all the staff at The Downs Sixth Form are so pleased for them and wish them all the very best for the future’.