South Devon High School students celebrate outstanding GCSE results
There’s so much to celebrate today as South Devon High School pupils collect their GCSE results with a 98% overall pass rate, with at least 75% achievement rates at grade 9-4 in English, Maths and Science. There was excellent achievement in Photography, Sociology and Business GCSE as well as more than 90% achievement in Automotive, Childcare and Sport level 2 technical qualifications which students study alongside their GCSEs.
Elsie Hancox, 16, from Brixham, studied GCSE Photography, Extended Certificate in Media, Sociology, Art and Design, English, Maths and Science, achieving grades 5-7 across these subjects. She now plans to study A Levels at South Devon College’s Sixth Form.
She said: “I found my previous school stressful so coming to the High School was lovely and less pressured and I had such supportive teachers. I did better than expected in some subjects – my results still haven’t sunk in!”
Elsie’s Mum Kerry said: “El started South Devon High School with an extreme fear of school and teachers. The support and care she has received from teachers has given her the confidence she once had, and amazing GCSE results. Thank you to all of the teachers at South Devon High School!”
Dharje Gunasekara, 16, from Paignton, achieved grades 6-9 in a range of subjects including Maths, Geography and History. He now plans to study A Levels at South Devon College’s Sixth Form.
He said: “I liked how the teachers used different approaches to teach their subject – it made it easier to learn and was a good working environment.
”I am happy with my results. My advice to anyone would be try your best and you will get rewards.”
Another student celebrating today was Isabel Goswell, 16, from Brixham. She studied Geography, Photography, Level 2 in Sports, Maths, English and Science. She wasn’t confident about her results in English Language, however through all her hard work she achieved an impressive Grade 7!
She said: “I loved the independence of High School and made good friendships. I am really happy with my results today and plan to go on to study A levels.”
Sophie Hiscutt, 16, from Newton Abbot, studied Art, Sociology, Photography, History, Maths, English, and Science, achieving grades 4-9.
She said: “My sister came here and did well, so I wanted to follow in her footsteps. I liked the small classes as you receive more attention and the teachers were very helpful.
“There is a real community amongst the students and everyone is friendly. For anyone thinking of coming to the Hiigh School – just do it!
“I am still deciding what I want to study at college next year, but my results are better than I expected!”
Tyler Allen, 16, from Torquay, was also very happy with his results, achieving grades 4-8 GCSEs or equivalents in Maths, English, Science, Games Development, Engineering, Catering, and Computer Science. “I am chuffed and beyond happy as I did better than expected!”
“The teachers felt more like friends – the quality of teaching and the facilities on offer are amazing, and I’m looking forward to moving on to A Levels at South Devon College,” he said.
Gabrielle Mulhearne, 16, from Torquay, was celebrating GCSEs including Geography, History, and Childcare, and is moving on to study a T Level in Childcare at South Devon College.
“'I made a fantastic group of friends and the teachers have been super supportive.”
Another student success story is James Quinn, 16, from Kingswear, who is celebrating achieving grades 4-8 in Computer Science, Business, Games Development and Automotive, alongside the core curriculum subjects of Maths, English, and Science.
“I was recommended to study here and the teachers were friendly and supportive. I’m hoping to continue on to study a Level 3 in Computer Science here at the College.”
Olivia Parr, 16, from Paignton, was awarded grades 5-9, in subjects including Sociology, Photography, Health and Social Care, in which she achieved a distinction, and Childcare, which resulted in an A*. She achieved a fantastic grade 9 in English Language.
“I wasn’t happy at my old school and had bad social anxiety after Covid. I struggled with the big class sizes and environment. A friend suggested I come here instead. High School felt a lot calmer and a lot more supportive. I knew straight away it was the right decision.
“I'm going to study A Levels at South Devon College in Biology, Psychology and Sociology. I have an interest in mental health within the NHS.
Matt Burrows, Head of South Devon High School, said: “It’s yet another day to be very proud of our pupils’ successes. These excellent results are such a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students. I wish them every success as they embark on the next steps in their educational journeys, whether that is A Levels, apprenticeships, or technical and professional courses here at South Devon College.
“I would also like to thank all our hardworking and experienced staff who have supported the pupils in obtaining these amazing GCSE results. It’s indicative of why the College was awarded Outstanding from Ofsted for its education programmes for young people, which includes South Devon High School.”
South Devon High School combines academic and technical qualifications with great opportunity for progression into further and higher education. With a national kitemark for careers and employability alongside learning, young people can utilise the state-of-the-art resources and facilities to develop the skills that employers need both in the South West and beyond.
South Devon High School pupils can progress on to South Devon College before continuing on to the University Centre South Devon, meaning their entire education journey can be done locally. The High School is hosting an information event for September 2025 entry on October 17th at 4.30pm.
If you’re interested in studying further or higher education, there’s still time to apply – just visit southdevon.ac.uk or visit us at our next open evening on 8th October, 4-6.30pm. The College’s expert team are in place to assist with progression to a variety of different pathways that your new qualifications will make possible, simply call 08000 380 123 or email them at enquiries@southdevon.ac.uk.
