Oxford headteachers praise A-level students on results day

Students’ education has been severely interrupted with lockdowns, online learning and school closures just some of the things thrown at them.

However, after giving out A-level results, headteachers had nothing but praise for how students have handled the past two academic years.

Read also: Oxford A-level student went from U grade to three A*s

Zaf Hussain, head of sixth form at St Gregory the Great Catholic School, said: “We are really proud of how our students and staff have handled this exceptionally difficult year.

“Each and every student deserves the grade they have achieved and all of our students have successfully secured their destinations which include all students applying and gaining places for their chosen subjects at universities, apprenticeships and further employment.

“As head of sixth form, I am so proud of all our students.

“It’s been such a difficult 18 months, both the staff and students have worked tirelessly in making sure everyone was prepared for online learning and each time we returned back to school after the lockdowns.”

Chris Price, headteacher at Cherwell School, added: “Our A-level students have faced unprecedented challenges during their courses.

“We would like to pay tribute to their determination, resilience and spirit.

“We are immensely proud of them and wish them great success as they move onto their next steps in education or the world of work.

“We would also like to thank all of our staff who have been there to support our students.

“At Cherwell, we never forget that it is a privilege to work in an environment with such inspirational young people, but it has been a particular privilege to have done so this year.”

Chris Price, headteacher at Cherwell School. Picture: Ed Nix

The Oxford Academy headteacher Nora Ward was another school leader who heaped praise on students and staff alike.

She said: “I’m so proud of the way that our students, staff and families have responded to the challenges of the past year.

“The students of The Oxford Academy have earned their grades through very hard work, achieving to the best of their abilities often in incredibly challenging conditions.

“Our staff have worked tirelessly to ensure students are all supported to progress onto further education, work and study, and I look forward to seeing what our amazing students will achieve in the future.”

Cheney School in Headington said it was proud of the ‘resilience and common sense’ shown by students.

Students collect their results at Cheney School. Picture: Ed Nix

Headteacher Rob Pavey told the Oxford Mail: “Over 85 per cent got into their first choice university.

“I’m happy with the results process this year because students have been tested on what they’ve learnt, hence results are higher.

“This is a much fairer way of doing this rather than any of the alternatives.”

Gosford Hill School in Kidlington said it was celebrating after two ‘challenging years’.

The school said in a statement: “The students’ hard work, resilience and dedication to their studies has resulted in some tremendous results.”