New performance data released for 2026 has revealed the top-performing schools in Bolton, showcasing a high level of academic achievement across the borough at Key Stage 4. The figures, which track the percentage of pupils achieving five or more “good” GCSEs—including English and maths—have highlighted standout success stories across the local education sector.
Leading the borough this year is Eden Boys’ School, Bolton, which secured the top spot with an impressive 82.9 per cent of pupils hitting the benchmark. The school also performed strongly in other key metrics, recording the highest Attainment 8 score in the borough at 57, and seeing 74.8 per cent of its students achieve a grade 5 or above in both English and maths.
Closely trailing the leaders, Sharples School celebrated a historic year, recording 82.3 per cent of pupils meeting the headline standard. Headteacher Caroline Molyneux praised the “class of 2026” for their record-breaking results. “It was a huge team effort and we are very proud of our achievements together,” she said. “Our goal is always to ensure that our students have everything they need to take the next step in their journey beyond Sharples.”
Also placing within the top five are Canon Slade School, which achieved 79.9 per cent, followed by Bolton Muslim Girls’ School at 79.2 per cent and Kearsley Academy at 69.6 per cent.
Idrish Patel, headteacher of Bolton Muslim Girls’ School, expressed his delight at the school’s placement among the region’s elite performers. “This is a tremendous achievement and a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and ambition of our pupils,” Mr. Patel stated. “This success belongs to our entire school community. We remain ambitious for the future and committed to building on this success.”
The broader list of results reflects a competitive landscape, with St James’ CE Church of England High School recording 65.2 per cent, Essa Academy achieving 64.7 per cent, and Little Lever School at 62.5 per cent. Rivington and Blackrod High School and King’s Leadership Academy Bolton also featured prominently, recording 60.8 per cent and 60.3 per cent respectively.
However, officials have urged caution when comparing results, noting that the data does not account for all qualifications. Schools such as Bolton School (Boys’ and Girls’ Divisions) and Lord’s School utilize International GCSEs (IGCSEs), which are not always captured in standard government headline measures. A spokesperson for Bolton School noted that when their full range of qualifications is included, their performance figures significantly increase, emphasizing that “exam results do very often provide the passport to the next stage of life.”
The published league tables provide a valuable, though partial, insight into academic standards in Bolton, offering parents and the public a snapshot of how schools have navigated the challenges of the 2026 examination season.
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