STUDENTS at Sturminster Newton High School delivered the best progress scores in the school’s recent history as they picked up their GCSE results today (August 21).

Mr Motteram, head of school, said he is “absolutely delighted” with the progress made by students.

“These results are not only a testament to their academic ability, but also to the values that define our school community—responsibility, resilience, and respect,” he said.

“Our students have shown what is possible when they take ownership of their learning, rise to challenges, and support one another.”

Some high flyers include:

• Oscar achieved nine GCSEs at grade 9 and three at grade 8, placing him among the highest achievers in the school.
• Chirandi achieved six GCSEs at grade 9 and three at grade 8, reflecting her consistent academic excellence.
• Noah achieved four GCSEs at grade 9, three at grade 8, and three at grade 7, placing him among the top performers in this year’s cohort.
• Elizabeth achieved five GCSEs at grade 9, one at grade 8, three at grade 7, and one at grade 6, demonstrating a strong and consistent academic performance across a broad range of subjects.
• Sam achieved two GCSEs at grade 9, five at grade 8, and three at grade 7, showing consistent effort and achievement across his subjects.

PICTURES: Sturminster Newton students celebrate as they pick up exceptional A-level results

READ MORE: Thousands of homes proposed for Sturminster Newton, Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Sturminster Marshall and more

Picture: Sturminster Newton High School

A school spokesperson said: “These brilliant GCSE results follow an equally strong set of A Level outcomes earlier this summer, further highlighting the academic momentum across the school.

“The consistency of achievement at both Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 reflects the strength of teaching, the ambition of our students, and the supportive environment fostered throughout Sturminster Newton High School.

“Together, these results underline that Sturminster Newton High School remains an excellent education provider for our local community—combining exceptional pastoral care, strong relationships, and a clear academic ethos to ensure students leave us with the grades they need to flourish.”

Many students are now progressing to exciting next steps in further education, training, and employment, with a significant number choosing to continue their studies in our thriving sixth form.

A school spokesperson added: “We extend heartfelt thanks to families, community members, and our dedicated teaching and support staff, whose encouragement and belief in our students have made a profound difference.

“As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child—and this year’s success is a true reflection of that collective effort.”

The school has also praised various department that all recorded average progress of half a grade or more above expectations for their students: religious education, computing, drama, maths, and geography.

In addition, business studies, biology, English, and media also secured average progress above expected targets.