Chapter two of this year’s exam outcomes has duly arrived, accompanied by the warnings from the exam authorities to expect reductions in the grades achieved due to the post-pandemic readjustments that will be under way for the next couple of years. In fact the headline figure for BWS of 76% Grades 9-7 is almost identical to the figure that was distilled in 2021 by the teacher assessment process, so I am very pleased and frankly a little relieved! An unprecedented context created more uncertainty for everyone, but thanks to a clear and level headed approach by teachers, technology to repair the cracks and great dollops of hard work our boys have come through with flying colours.
We should in no way take this for granted. At 159 our Year 11 was by some way our biggest yet, as the demographic expansion of the school completed this year. Add to that the cumulative effects of lockdowns/remote learning and occasional waves of infection and it is evident that this year group has performed really well. Their excellent grades should enable them to look forward with confidence to their next challenges – either within the sixth form at BWS or at one of the other excellent local post-16 providers. I wish them all luck, and would like to say a heartfelt thanks to all of my colleagues who have done a superb job in supporting our boys once again.
SDS
