Cheltenham College pupils are celebrating an excellent set of GCSE results, with some outstanding individual performances. Of all the examinations taken, 24% were graded A* and a further 31% graded A. 96% achieved at least five A* to C grades. Around a quarter of candidates gained 9 or more A*s and As across the board, with 70% of candidates achieving at least one A*.

All pupils sat the International GCSE [IGCSE] in Maths, English Literature and Science alongside GCSEs in other subjects. Academically more rigorous than their GCSE counterparts, these examinations require pupils to study, understand and think more deeply. The IGCSE is not, however, recognised by the Government’s Qualifications and Curriculum Authority and is therefore automatically excluded from School League Tables.

Alex Peterken, the new Headmaster of Cheltenham College from September 2010 commented: “While it was always going to be hard to beat last year’s extraordinarily good GCSE results, these results are the second best ever with over 55% graded A* or A and some truly exceptional individual performances. As a year group, the pupils have worked extremely hard across the whole sphere of College life and stand in excellent stead for their A Level courses. They will now be the first cohort to embark upon our accredited Life Skills and Leadership programme in the Sixth Form which will give them the best possible preparation for University and life beyond school. They have an exciting two years ahead of them!”

He continued: “The consistently high performance of pupils at IGCSE level reflects the success of this more demanding examination. From 2010 onwards, pupils will also be taking it in Geography and History as well as the current subjects of Maths, English Literature and Science.”