There was a mixture of relief and excitement this morning at Shebbear College, as Form 5 pupils nervously opened their envelopes at school to reveal their GCSE grades!

The students have been working hard this year, with some taking as many as twelve GCSEs, as well as juggling other interests including music and sport. They have achieved highly across the board with impressive results in both STEM and Arts subjects. 

“I am so proud of all our Form 5 pupils,” said outgoing Head Mrs Kirby. “Their work ethic has been incredible and I know that they have so closely supported one another throughout the past two years. A huge well done to all of them and an enormous thank you to our dedicated teachers who have been with them every step of the way.”

One of the pupils celebrating this morning was George, who opened his envelope to discover that he had gained an impressive seven Grade 9s as well as one Grade 8, three Grade 7s and a Grade 6. Alongside his academic studies, George is also a talented pianist and a county hockey player.

“I didn’t really know what today would bring to be honest,” said George. “Everything’s been a bit up in the air for a few years. I’m very happy with my results and I’m planning to study Physics, Chemistry, Maths and Economics at A-Level – and possibly look into the EPQ as well.”

Fellow county hockey player, Sophie, found out that she had achieved a Grade 9, six Grade 8s and four Grade 6s in her GCSEs, whilst talented actor and singer Sienna was delighted with nine Grades 7 – 9 and two other strong passes.

“My GCSE results also determine which university I go to as I want to study Medicine, where they take GCSE results into account. I’ve got everything I need so I’m happy!” said Sienna.    

Others celebrating this morning are twins Isobel and Cameron who both gained an excellent set of results - including 16 Grades 7-9 between them - and managed to display only a touch of sibling rivalry!

“We definitely have a bit of rivalry with each other!” said Isobel. “I was hoping to beat my brother but we took different subjects so you can’t really compare - he’s really bright and I’m more creative.”

“I’m very happy with my results and I feel like I’ve got the grades I deserved.” added Cameron, “It was really tiring revising for the exams, I had some late nights trying to cram in as much revision as possible but it all worked out.”

Performing Arts Scholar Toby took some time out to open his results this morning, after a busy summer of Music and Theatre, including lighting all of the sets on the marquee stage at Chagstock Festival!

“I was quite nervous walking over with my mates this morning!” said Toby, “I think we’re all overly relieved now! I want to do Drama, Music and Physics at A-Level and I got my highest grades in these subjects so I’m really pleased. After A-Levels my plan is to study Technical Music Theatre Management at college or university. I met a few people at Chagstock who will hopefully be good connections in the future!”

Mr Jenkins, incoming Head, said “There was a great atmosphere at school this morning and it was fantastic to see so many pupils celebrating with their friends, parents and teachers! As a non-academically selective school our goal is to enable pupils to achieve their personal best and we definitely achieved this today. I wish them all the best of luck for the future!”