Two prominent Catholic schools, one in Coventry and another in Birmingham, are currently celebrating remarkable achievements in their recent A-level and Level 3 vocational results. This academic success marks a significant milestone for both institutions and their dedicated students.
Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School – Coventry
Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School, an integral part of the Romero Catholic Academy, has reported a notable uplift in the number of students securing the highest possible grades. This academic excellence has paved the way for many to gain coveted placements at leading universities across the country, as well as highly competitive degree apprenticeships. The graduating class is now poised to embark on diverse pathways, including attending prestigious Russell Group universities, other leading higher education institutions, engaging in robust degree apprenticeships, or entering the workforce directly.
Among the high achievers is Harryson Barber, who excelled with triple A grades in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Expressing his satisfaction, Harryson shared, "I got the grades I needed to do what I wanted to do, so I’m really pleased and ready to start the next stage of my life." He is set to commence a degree apprenticeship in civil engineering with Jacobs, a path he deliberately chose over the traditional university route. He believes this apprenticeship will provide invaluable on-the-job experience while equipping him with essential skills for his future career. Harryson, who always embraces challenges, noted that his hard work in demanding A-levels has truly paid off.
Kacper Ciepinski achieved an impressive A, B, A, A in mathematics, further mathematics, Polish, and physics. Initially apprehensive about opening his results, Kacper is now looking forward to studying mechanical engineering at the University of Warwick. He stated, "I knew I wanted to do something involving engineering and maths, so this felt like the right choice for me." He acknowledged the intense focus required over the past year to achieve his goals.
Rosmary Joshy, a standout in vocational subjects, secured two Distinction* grades and one Distinction across her Level 3 vocational subjects, including top accolades in digital media and ICT. Overjoyed with her results, Rosmary found it almost unbelievable. She plans to pursue apprenticeships in digital marketing or IT, combining her natural aptitude for technology with her creative interests. Rosmary bravely shared her journey, noting the initial difficulties and mental health challenges she faced during her first year, which ultimately led her to trust her instincts and find the right academic path.
Natalia Pilc achieved an exceptional A, A, A, A* in psychology, history, English, and Polish. Overwhelmed and shaking with disbelief, Natalia confessed she hadn’t expected such outstanding results, particularly in history. She is now set to study law at the University of Warwick, with aspirations of becoming a solicitor specializing in either criminal or corporate law. Natalia expressed immense pride in her achievements.
Isaac Onuwuka celebrated an impressive A, A, A in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. He expressed excitement about his results, noting that physics, despite being the most challenging, was a subject he always loved. Isaac plans to take a gap year to work before applying to study electrical engineering. His ultimate goal is to work in prosthetics, inspired by his mother’s work in a hospital and his desire to help people.
Bartosz Okuniewski surpassed his own expectations, achieving Distinction*, Distinction, Distinction in ICT, digital media, and business. He hopes to secure an apprenticeship in administration or human resources, driven by his passion for learning and the belief that apprenticeships offer the ideal route for him. Bartosz seeks a job with promising career opportunities and long-term stability, emphasizing the importance of choosing enjoyable subjects to ensure lasting knowledge.
Eden Pollock, who achieved Distinction, C, Distinction in health and social care, psychology, and applied science, was initially in shock due to her relentless hard work. She is now heading to Coventry University to study adult nursing, driven by her long-standing desire to help people. Eden believes her chosen subjects have provided her with the essential knowledge and understanding for her future career, affirming that her hard work was indeed worthwhile.
Laura Burtonwood, Principal at Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School, expressed immense pride in all her students. She highlighted that their achievements reflect their hard work, determination, and resilience throughout their time at the school. Ms. Burtonwood emphasized that these successes are not merely about grades but represent the culmination of countless small choices and the unwavering determination to persevere through difficulties. She underscored that behind every grade is a young person who has worked diligently, overcome challenges, and refused to give up, making the celebration of their journey as important as the results themselves. She concluded by extending her gratitude to the dedicated staff and families whose support and encouragement were instrumental in helping the students achieve their goals, wishing them all the best in their exciting future endeavors, whether in university, apprenticeships, or employment.
Bishop Challoner Catholic School – Birmingham
Bishop Challoner Catholic School Sixth Form is also celebrating another fantastic year of post-16 success. Adam Hall, the Executive Headteacher, lauded the results as a wonderful celebration of the students’ achievements. He stated that Bishop Challoner believes in "doing ordinary things extraordinarily well," a philosophy embodied by this year group through their daily commitment, perseverance, and ambition. He expressed immense pride in each student.
Ranjit Pabila, the Head of School, echoed these sentiments, expressing pride in the students’ accomplishments, attributing them to their hard work, resilience, and ambition, as well as the outstanding commitment of the staff. The school achieved an ALPS 2 rating for A-levels, placing it in the top 10% nationally. Furthermore, its ALPS 1 rating for BTEC vocational provision positions it in the top 1% nationally, demonstrating the exceptional breadth and quality of education offered. The school extends its best wishes to all students as they progress to university, higher and degree-level apprenticeships, employment, and the next stages of their education and careers.
The results were strong across all departments, with particularly outstanding performances in Biology, where 100% of students achieved A-A grades. The Chemistry Department saw 80% of students attain A-B grades, and the Sociology Department boasted 92% of students achieving A-B grades. Vocational subjects also excelled, with an impressive 92% of students achieving DDD-DDD grades in Btec Business and 90% achieving DDD*-DDD grades in Btec Health and Social Care. These exceptional achievements across both academic and vocational streams highlight the dedication of students and staff alike.
