Hereford Cathedral School is celebrating record-breaking GCSE results, with an outstanding 97.7% of grades at 9–4 (A–C equivalent) – the highest percentage ever achieved when pupils have sat examinations.
More than half of all grades were awarded at 9–7, a third at 9–8, and nearly three-quarters at 9–6 or higher. Over 99% of pupils achieved grade 4 or above across all the core subjects of English, Maths and Science.
Subject highlights included exceptional achievements in the Sciences, where 85% of Chemistry and Physics results and 80% of Biology results were at 9–7. In the creative and specialist subjects, performances were equally strong: Music saw 100% of grades at 9–8 (with 89% grade 9), Drama 93% grades 9-7, and Further Maths 91% grades 9-7. Almost half of all Computer Science candidates achieved the top grades 8 and 9.
Headmaster Dr Michael Gray praised both the results and the students’ efforts: “It is absolutely wonderful to have a year of record-breaking GCSE examination results, and this is testament to the hard work and commitment of our students, who have been supported so effectively by all the staff. What is particularly fantastic to see is the consistency, which is characterised by the fact that 99.5% of grades in Maths, English and Science were a pass, with so many of our students exceeding their expectations and coming out with some top outcomes.
These GCSE results will lay a really strong foundation as they progress into the HCS Sixth Form and enjoy its academic excellence, pastoral support and the exciting opportunities.
“These GCSE results will lay a really strong foundation as they progress into the HCS Sixth Form and enjoy its academic excellence, pastoral support and the exciting opportunities such as the Future Leaders programme. Congratulations to all our Year 11 students and well done on some really brilliant results!”
Alongside the headline figures, students reflected on both their achievements and the support they have received at HCS. Anna P, who received straight 9s and a 7 in Spanish, spoke warmly about the next stage of her journey: “I’m really looking forward to Sixth Form – just taking subjects that I love with teachers who are really passionate about their subjects. HCS has been fantastic, fulfilling and amazing. It’s just been so, so fun. I wouldn’t change it.”
HCS has been fantastic, fulfilling and amazing. It’s just been so, so fun. I wouldn’t change it.
Jack J, who achieved seven grade 9s and four grade 8s, was equally enthusiastic about the breadth of opportunities: “I’ve done a lot of music, CCF, rowing and schoolwork – just the whole experience really. I’m just happy to be here!” For Esme B, who secured seven grade 9s and three grade 8s, the results were particularly meaningful in science: “I was very worried about them, so I’m really happy that I did well. The teachers have been really good, especially with revision sessions and all the extra work.”
Others highlighted the combination of academic success and wider school life. Isabel D, who celebrated a strong set of results, said: “I’ve really enjoyed playing in the first team hockey and the Cathedral Cities Cup. The support’s been really good from my teachers and helped me get my grades.” Gwen D, who achieved 9s across a wide range of subjects, added: “I’ve got lots of friends and I’m really excited to be in the Sixth Form with them. The Salamanca trip last year was really fun and really helpful with Spanish.”
Some pupils spoke about how HCS has shaped their passions and future pathways. Clara M, who achieved an excellent set of results including grade 9 in Music, said: “Performing in the school musical Sister Act was one of my standout moments. HCS has helped me so much to grow as a musician – I got to sing in St Paul’s Cathedral, which was really fun. I love singing in choirs and it’s made me realise that I might actually be able to do it as a profession, so I’m really grateful for that.”
For JK H, the story was one of resilience: “In my mocks I got a 5 in Maths, but in my actual exam I got an 8. I’ve had so much support from my teachers – you can tell that they really do care about the results that the students get.”
For others, the friendships and sense of belonging stand out most of all. Elena B summed up her HCS journey in three words: “social, sports and long-lasting friendships.”
I’ve had so much support from my teachers – you can tell that they really do care about the results that the students get.
Many pupils spoke with excitement about the next stage of their education at HCS. Georgina T said: “I’m most looking forward to the independent study in Sixth Form… I think it’s a really important skill that you’ll have throughout your whole life.” Leo M added: “I’m looking forward to having lots of control of my routine and also I can’t wait to study the subjects I’m really passionate about.”
From rowing victories and drama productions to international trips and choir tours, this year’s GCSE students have combined academic excellence with a rich and varied school experience. Hereford Cathedral School warmly congratulates all pupils on their exceptional achievements and looks forward to following their continued journeys as they progress into Sixth Form and beyond.
