After a difficult A-level journey for the grammar school’s 2021 leavers, including two lengthy lockdowns and further periods of isolation, student performance at Ribston Hall has been outstanding. With over 50% of A-levels resulting in an A or A*, over 10% up from last year, the students have demonstrated just how well they adapted to the unusual conditions dictated by the ongoing pandemic. Over 72% of entries were graded B or above, with 89% within the A*-C range.

Examination success, coupled with Ribston Hall’s strong emphasis on careers advice, has resulted in most students opting for Higher Education, but some also securing apprenticeships or other employment opportunities to support direct entry to their chosen career paths. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) offered at Ribston Hall has assisted with securing valued study and employment opportunities, worth the equivalent of half an A-level on a subject of the student’s choosing.

Mr Robert Goodwin, Head of Ribston Hall Sixth Form said, “I am delighted with this year’s A-level results; the students’ hard work and dedication over the last two years is evidenced in their achievements.

Many of our students have achieved places at the university of their choice and we wish them well with their future studies. Our Sixth Form aims to empower students to discover their potential and I feel this year’s students have demonstrated that with their results today. We wish them all the very best with their future successes, whichever pathway they choose to follow.”

Headteacher, Mrs Sarah Colombini, commented, “We set ambitious targets at Ribston Hall to help students to build brighter futures in a challenging economic environment. These results truly reflect our students’ determination, effort and commitment. I am delighted for them as they really do deserve these exceptional achievements and the opportunity to celebrate their success.  

“Our teaching and support staff have gone above and beyond to ensure our students have been able to transition smoothly between face to face and remote learning over the last 18 months, in addition to the exceptional level of education they deliver day to day, so we are all delighted to see the results also reflecting this input from the wider team. Our Year 13s have been a fantastic cohort at Ribston Hall Sixth Form and we wish them all well in their next stage, whether onto Higher Education or into the workplace.”

The Head Girl Zoe Sparkes achieved an A*, A* and an A in her Advanced Levels and is excited to be continuing her academic studies at Durham University in September. Marli Allen (A*A*A), who is going to read History at the University of Oxford, commented, “I am so grateful for everything Ribston Hall has given me over the past seven years; I couldn’t have wished for a more supportive school in my journey to where I am today.” Isobel Hill (A*A*A*), who will be studying English Literature and History at the University of Leeds, said, “My experience at Ribston Hall over seven years has been amazing – I feel it really pushed me to reach my full potential and go beyond what I thought I was capable of achieving. The teachers have constantly been supportive and made me realise just how far I could go.”

Lauren Smith (A*A*A), who starts a BVSc in Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol in the autumn, stated, “I couldn’t have got to where I am today without the teachers’ support from Year 7 to Year 13. I’m so grateful for always being pushed to do my best.”