Year 11 pupils at King Edward’s School, Bath (KES) are celebrating some of the school’s best ever GCSE results, with a remarkable 41% of all grades awarded at grade 9, around seven times the national average.
Alongside this achievement, 65% of grades were awarded at grades 9-8 and 83% at grades 9-7, while a quarter of the cohort gained all 9/8 grades, broadly equivalent to the old A*.
The results follow last week’s excellent A-Level outcomes, which saw KES ranked among the top 50 schools nationally according to The Times, completing a summer of strong academic success for the school.
Alongside their examination results, many of the pupils celebrating have also contributed to school life through sport, music, drama, the CCF, outward bound activities, debating, creative writing and charitable service. The school says this reflects its belief that academic achievement is at its strongest when accompanied by personal growth and opportunities beyond the classroom.
Headmaster Martin Boden said, “I am absolutely delighted for all our pupils in the Class of 2026, who have deservedly achieved these outstanding GCSE results. This is a very talented year group that has shown dedication, resilience and impressive ambition throughout their time at KES, underpinned by characterful engagement, mutual support and a genuine appreciation for their peers and the wider school community.
“We are immensely proud of all that these pupils have accomplished, both within and beyond the classroom, and look forward to seeing them thrive on all fronts in the Sixth Form.”
KES also paid tribute to the teaching staff and families who have supported pupils throughout their studies, as well as the determination of the pupils themselves.
The school’s most recent ISI inspection recognised KES as a school where pupils are known as individuals, flourish academically and personally and are inspired to achieve highly.
With a new group of pupils also due to join the Sixth Form in September, KES is now looking forward to welcoming the Class of 2026 back for the next stage of their education.
