Thetford Academy students are celebrating what outgoing Principal Michael Fordham described as the school’s best-ever GCSE results.
The proportion of students achieving a strong pass, grades 9-5, in both Maths and English rose to 46%, up from 41% last year, bucking the national trend. English Language results increased from 44% to 52%, while History rose from 35% to 42%.
Joshua was the school’s highest grade scorer, achieving nine grade 9s alongside a grade 7 in English Literature. He will now join Thomas Paine Sixth Form to study Maths, Further Maths and Computing before pursuing Computer Science at university. Joshua was closely followed by Emily, who achieved seven 9s, three 8s and a Level 2 Distinction in Music BTEC.
George also achieved an impressive set of results, including five 9s, two 8s, two 6s and a Level 2 Distinction. He plans to study Maths and Science at Thomas Paine Sixth Form.
Sophie is heading to West Suffolk College to study Level 3 Musical Theatre, inspired by her involvement in the school’s musicals, while Summer was delighted to have passed all her exams and will join Thomas Paine to study English, Sociology and Media Studies.
Michael Fordham and incoming Principal Ina Coubrough said they were “absolutely delighted” that, for the first time, Thetford Academy’s average GCSE grade had reached 5, which is above the national average.
“The results are a testament to the determination and hard work of students, supported by their families, teachers and staff,” said Dr Fordham. “Together, the achievements demonstrate that greatness is being fostered in Thetford, with students now taking their next steps towards bright futures.”
Meanwhile, at Thomas Paine Sixth Form, 70% of A-level grades were awarded at A*-C, with 35% at A*-B. Students also made excellent progress throughout their courses, with Charlie, Sarah and Emily recording the strongest progress.
For the second consecutive year, the sixth form achieved a 100% pass rate, with every student passing every qualification. All students progressing to university secured a place at either their first or second-choice institution, with destinations including King’s College London, York, Liverpool and Exeter. Students have also secured high-quality apprenticeships in fields including engineering, policing and dental nursing.
Among the high achievers was James, who achieved A* A* A in Maths, Computer Science and Further Maths and will study Computer Science at UEA. Jack achieved a starred distinction in Music Performance and has secured a place at the Royal Academy of Music with a highly sought-after scholarship.
Michael Fordham, Principal, and Ina Coubrough, who became Principal of Thetford Academy and Thomas Paine Sixth Form in September, said: “We’re delighted to see students celebrating another year of excellent results. We once again have students achieving outstanding suites of grades, including James and Jack. A huge well done to all our students, who have worked incredibly hard this year. We wish them every success as they take their next steps.”
For Emily, results day marked the start of an exciting new chapter. Having completed an apprenticeship alongside her A-levels, she began her job in September. “Now I get to work and learn at the same time,” she said. “I’ve worked hard, passed my driving test and I’m ready to go!”
Carmen will head to the University of Exeter to study Medical Imaging. “I wanted to combine medicine with radiation,” she said. “After that, I’m aiming for a postgrad in nuclear medicine.”
Head of Thomas Paine Sixth Form and Vice Principal, Kirshen Porter, said: “We are exceptionally proud of everything our students have achieved this year and the progress they have made as individuals. Their results are a credit to their hard work and dedication, alongside the exceptional work of the Sixth Form team and their teachers.”
