‘Resilient’ students rise to the challenge
‘Fantastic stories of progress and attainment right across the cohort’
THERE were tears of joy at John O’Gaunt in Hungerford as pupils picked up their GCSE results.
Tiegan Henderson said she was “absolutely thrilled” with her results.
She’s now going to study science A-levels at St Johns in Marlborough.
Still shaking, Victoria Jaworska revealed she had achieved all grade 9s and 8s.
She said it had been really difficult with Covid, but was delighted with her results and now wants to go on to study sciences.
Head of school Richard Hawthorne said: “This cohort has faced so many challenges throughout the last two years of study.
“They have coped with everything from lockdowns and school closures, illness, uncertainty, regular disruptions to their learning and the return of normal exams.
“To see the collective and individual success stories from today’s results not only highlights their grit and determination but says an awful lot more about their talents than examination results alone can show.
“They really are a special group of young people and we are extremely proud of every one of them.”
Aaron Smith and Mikey Hughes were the first through the door at John O’Gaunt.
Mikey was relieved when he saw his results and said he will go on to study social care, while Aaron is going to do a TV editing course.
Vice principal Corinne Walker said: “This is a stepping stone and we feel they are well prepared for the next step.
“As a school we have done well with a significant improvement at the top end, but also on other areas such as students with special needs.
“We thank the staff for all they have done for the students. ”
Jessica Archer and Katie
Griffiths were a bit tearful, but happy after “doing very well”.
Jessica wants to go on to study food sciences, biology and psychology, while Katie is off to do English literature, biology, politics and religious studies.
Katie’s mother Emma Griffiths said: “I’m just thrilled to bits with the results she deserves.
“It’s been a tough journey. “There’s been no let up as we didn’t know there would even be any exams.”
There were a number of notable individual accomplishments, including Catriona Durack, who gained three grade 9s and two distinctions in her vocational courses; Ben Brown was awarded four grade 9s and three grade 8s; Rosie Gregory obtained three grade 9s and five grade 8s; Naomi Fox-Shatford secured three grade 9s, three grade 8s and a grade 7 among other results; and Jonathan Kelly achieved at grade 6 and above in all his subjects including two grade 9s and three grade 8s.
Tiegan, along with Kainat Ali, who obtained three grade 9s, and Eliza Varodin, with four grade 7s, should also be recognised for the incredible progress they have made since Key Stage 2.
Mr Hawthorne added: “These results demonstrate the very high levels at which our students are capable of achieving.
“There are many other fantastic stories of progress and attainment right across the cohort.
“John O’Gaunt staff take great pride in supporting students of all abilities to achieve their very best and help them to do this year-on-year.
“I cannot praise them enough for their work and commitment to our students.
“None of today’s achievements would have been possible without the unrelenting effort from all those who have supported these incredible students.
“I am extremely proud of the entire JOG community.”