Samuel Ward Sixth School has paid tribute to students after 100% studying on the vocational pathway passed their courses.

It was a similar story of sustained progress and improvement for students on the academic pathway, where there has been a significant increase in the percentage of students gaining A*-C grades over the last two years and corresponding gains in the top grades of A*-B.

Headteacher Tom Johnston said: “I’m so pleased that the results this year demonstrate a continued improvement and increased excellence across the board.

“This marks a concerted strategic development of our Sixth Form provision to ensure that it meets the learning and social needs of the students and opens up doors for their futures.

“These results show more clearly now that if you are determined, work hard and take advantage of the excellent support from teachers and staff at the school, then students will achieve their ambitions at Samuel Ward Sixth Form.”

The vast majority of sixth form students applying to university achieved their preferred first choice placement, with students going on to read a range of subjects across the country.

Other students are moving on to undertake apprenticeships, such as the Sainsbury’s management programme, quantity surveying and accounting, or moving directly into employment with one student joining the Royal Marines and another working in childcare. 

Notable achievements included Alfie Davies is going to Nottingham Trent to study mechanical engineering, Corey Huckstep who is studying construction management and Freddy White will read sports journalism at the University of Gloucestershire.

In September 2025, the Sixth Form was completely remodelled and given new leadership to became ‘Samuel Ward Sixth Form’ to reflect the core role the sixth form has in the school – both by students leading the community and the highest standards of teaching and learning in classrooms.

The curriculum continues to develop and even more enrichment opportinuties and digital learning with the benefit of the iPads given to students to use during their studies.

Jo Wilson, Assistant Headteacher, who has been leading the continued development of the sixth form, added: “It’s been a joy to share the successes with the students after seeing them develop and grow in confidence over the last two years.

“I am proud of each and every one. It is particularly pleasing that the students have secured the right future pathway for them, whatever their ambitions, including top universities and other routes.

“Being a student at Samuel Ward isn’t just about getting the qualifications though. Students leaving the school have become confident, positive and well-rounded young people who are well equipped to go on to lead rich and fulfilling lives.”