Schools and pupils are all smiles with GCSE results
THOUSANDS of teenagers nervously walked to their schools to pick up their GCSE results last Thursday.
Overall, GCSE performance in Rhondda Cynon Taff showed improvement, as 60% of learners achieved A*-C grades and 96.7% secured A*-G grades.
The number of learners awarded the highest grade remained stable, with 15.1% achieving A*-A grades.
Cabinet member Councillor Joy Rosser said: “Today is a big day for learners across Rhondda Cynon Taff, who have worked so hard to achieve their grades.
“I would like to congratulate them all on their achievements and wish them all the very best in whichever path they choose to pursue.
“It is also important that we pay tribute to the vital role played by families, teachers and school staff in supporting and encouraging every learner to reach their full potential.”
Aberdare Community School produced its bestever set of exam results since moving to the Ynys site in 2014.
A statement on the school website read: “The school is particularly pleased that they have seen an increase in nearly all main headline results.
“These pleasing results are down to the commitment and hard work of the pupils, the support of their families and the dedication and high expectations of teaching staff.
“These young people need to be congratulated for their tremendous achievements.”
At St John Baptist High School, 100% of pupils achieved five GCSEs and nearly a quarter of pupils attained five A* or A grades.
The school emphasised that staff and governors are proud of the achievements of all pupils.
Headteacher Susan Mitchell said: “I am thrilled at the success that our pupils have achieved. They have worked really hard and have supported each other in their learning.
“Staff have been so supportive of our pupils and have provided excellent teaching and guidance which has enabled them to achieve success.
“I would like to congratulate each pupil. We are delighted that the majority will be returning to St John’s to continue their studies.”
The week before, 100% of sixth-form pupils at the school walked away with at least two A-levels (or equivalents) at A*-E.
The number of pupils who achieved three A* or A grades also increased again this year.
Ms Mitchell said: “I am delighted at the success that our students have attained.
“These results enable our students to access the next stage of their lives, whether it be a place at university, an apprenticeship or employment.
“I am so proud of all of our pupils and would like to congratulate them on their commitment to their studies.”
At Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun all core subjects increased their results from last year, and there was significant improvement in English and science.
Almost all pupils reached their potential, and nearly 70% of pupils are returning to study at sixth form, which is the highest number in many years.
Across Wales, there was an improvement in GCSE A*-C grades but a slight fall in the top grades A*-A.
There was a drop in results in core subjects – English and Welsh language and maths at lower grades.
Results from exam board the WJEC show the proportion who achieved an A*-C was up by 1.2 percentage points to 62.8% after a five-year low last year.
In 2018, the A*-C pass rate dropped to its lowest since 2005.