STURMINSTER Newton High School Sixth Form is once again celebrating another exceptional year of academic success.

Students picked up their A-level results today (August 14), after months of hard work and determination to secure the best grades possible.

Many of the students secured the top grades required to pursue university degrees, apprenticeships, and high-quality employment opportunities.

The school saw notable achievements in both STEM and creative subjects.

“The continued upward trend in outcomes highlights the dedication of students, staff, and the wider school community,” a school spokesperson said.

Mr Samuel Ling, head of sixth form, said he is “immensely proud” of the students.

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“These results are a testament to their ambition, resilience, and unwavering commitment throughout their studies,” he said.

Picture: Sturminster Newton High School

“Many have achieved remarkable personal milestones, paving the way for exciting futures. Our staff have worked tirelessly to support every individual, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that effort reflected in today’s outcomes.”

Mr Michael Motteram, head of school, said: “These results underscore the strength of our Sixth Form and the dedication of our entire school community.

“We celebrate not only academic excellence but also the personal growth of our students. Their journey through Sixth Form has been shaped by the values we hold dear—respect, responsibility, and resilience—and they leave us ready to make a meaningful and positive impact in the world.”

Picture: Sturminster Newton High School

Student highlights:

• Ben White – (A*, A, A): Achieved top grades in biology, chemistry, and physics, and is now preparing for a career in veterinary medicine.
• Nat Quinnell – (A*, A, B): Excelled in maths, physics, and chemistry, placing among the top achievers in the county.
• Freya Pallett – (A, B, B): As head student studying across both Sturminster and Shaftesbury sites, Freya achieved excellent outcomes including a top grade in graphic design.
• Kalem Rimini – (D* Media): Demonstrated exceptional progress in the BTEC creative digital media production course, earning the highest possible grade of Distinction Star.

Picture: Sturminster Newton High School

The school said physics results continued its excellence with a three-year trend of rising achievement and business results were strong once again with successful progression to university and local enterprise roles.

Maths also maintained a record of high achievement and progression into STEM fields and geography saw a marked improvement in both exams and coursework, with strong student outcomes.

A school spokesperson said: “From prestigious university placements to career-ready apprenticeships and service in the Armed Forces, our students are embracing exciting futures across the UK.”

Notable destinations include Winchester University, Coventry University, Bournemouth University, Southampton Solent University, BIMM, University of the West of England, and the University of East Anglia.

Picture: Sturminster Newton High School

Students will be pursuing a wide range of disciplines such as veterinary medicine, law, digital media, criminology, cybersecurity, forensic science, and art—reflecting both academic excellence and personal passion.

They added: “We are especially proud of those entering the Armed Forces, demonstrating the values of resilience and service that define our school community. These achievements underscore the strength of our Sixth Form and the bright futures ahead for our students.

“This year’s results reflect the sixth form’s commitment to raising aspirations and delivering high-quality education.

“Many students are now progressing to top university courses, apprenticeships, and skilled employment across the region and beyond. With three consecutive years of improved outcomes, SNHS continues to build a legacy of excellence.”

Top A-level results across England, Wales and Northern Ireland have risen, with 28.3% of all grades marked at A* or A, up from 27.8% last year.

UCAS said a record number of students got into their first-choice university.