Sharples School Celebrates Historic GCSE Success as Students Excel
Students and staff at Sharples School in Bolton are celebrating after the institution recorded its best-ever GCSE results. The 2026 academic year has proven to be a landmark moment for the school, with pupils achieving exceptional grades across the board.
According to the latest figures, 73.5 per cent of students secured a grade 5 or above in both English and mathematics. Furthermore, an impressive 87 per cent of the cohort achieved a grade 4 or above in both core subjects, comfortably surpassing national averages.
Headteacher Caroline Molyneux expressed her immense pride in the "class of 2026," attributing the historic achievement to the dedication displayed by the entire school community.
"We are delighted at Sharples that the class of 2026 have achieved record-breaking results, the best ever in the history of the school," said Ms. Molyneux. "It is a testament to the hard work that students and staff have put in over their five years with us, and we would also like to thank all our parents for their support."
Individual performances were equally noteworthy, with one high-achieving student securing an incredible 11 straight grade 9s. Beyond the top-tier grades, the school emphasized the importance of ensuring every pupil reached their potential, noting that many students have successfully gained the qualifications required to advance to their chosen sixth-form studies, college courses, and apprenticeships.
The school’s performance remains well above national benchmarks; across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, roughly 22 per cent of entries achieved a grade 7 or higher, while more than two-thirds secured a grade 4 pass.
Located on Hill Cot Road, Sharples School serves a community of over 1,200 students. Guided by the motto “Learn. Dream. Achieve.,” the school has built a strong reputation for academic rigor and a focus on STEM education. The campus boasts unique facilities, including an observatory and a health hub featuring a swimming pool, underscoring its commitment to a holistic learning environment.
As the school continues to grow, these record-breaking GCSE results serve as a powerful milestone in its ongoing development, further cementing its place as a high-performing academic center in Bolton.
