THE head of Harbour Vale School in Sherborne – an alternative provision setting for students – said they are “incredibly proud” of students as they picked up GCSE results today (August 21).

The majority of students have successfully achieved GCSE qualifications in English and maths, providing them with the foundations they need to progress into further education, apprenticeships, and training opportunities.

Where students have not accessed GCSE exams, many have gained valuable Functional Skills qualifications, ensuring they leave the school with the credentials needed for their next steps.

Students at the school have overcome a wide range of challenges, the school said, including anxiety, mental health difficulties, and barriers to attendance, to reach this important milestone.

“Their determination and resilience are an inspiration to us all,” a school spokesperson said.

In addition to English and maths, students have celebrated success in subjects including biology, citizenship, and geography.

The school is “particularly proud of the outstanding results in art, a subject enjoyed and embraced by many of our young people, where creativity and talent have shone through.”

Headteacher Kelly Knight said: “We are incredibly proud of every one of our students.

“They have worked hard, overcome significant challenges, and today we celebrate not just their academic success, but their growth, resilience, and readiness for the future.

“We look forward to hearing the stories of what this inspiring group of young people go on to achieve.”