Students at Thorns Collegiate Academy in Brierley Hill are celebrating their GCSE results today as they prepare to move on to the next steps in their education, training and career journeys.
The Year 11 cohort returned to the Academy to collect their results, meet with staff and celebrate their achievements with family and friends.
The Academy’s results show improved outcomes at Grade 4+, Grade 5+ and Grade 7+ across nine subjects. This also included a record 17 Grade 9s achieved across Computer Science, English, Maths, Combined Science and History, alongside a total of 125 grades awarded at Grade 7 or above. A significant proportion of students also achieved success in their English qualifications.
Additionally, 94% of Year 11 students passed at least eight GCSE or BTEC qualifications across a broad range of 22 subjects, reflecting the diverse opportunities available at Thorns Collegiate Academy.
Staff have been on hand throughout the day to support students as they reflect on their achievements, explore their options and make informed decisions about their future pathways.
Nikki Jones, Principal at Thorns Collegiate Academy, said: “Behind every result is a young person with their own ambitions, experiences and goals, and it has been a privilege to support our students as they have grown and developed during their time at the Academy.
“On behalf of everyone at Thorns, congratulations to all of our students on their results this year. I hope they take time today to recognise how far they have come and feel proud of everything they have achieved. As they move on to their next steps, I encourage them to continue believing in their abilities and making the most of every opportunity ahead. I would also like to thank our staff and families for the support they have provided throughout.”
Sir Mark Grundy, CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, commented: “Congratulations to all our GCSE students at Thorns Collegiate Academy. Today is an opportunity to recognise not only the results you have achieved, but the ambition, character and determination you have shown throughout your time at the Academy. As you move forward, remember that your success is shaped by much more than qualifications alone. The skills, values and experiences you have developed will help you navigate new opportunities and overcome challenges as you continue to grow.
“On behalf of everyone at the Trust, I wish you every happiness and success for the future and look forward to seeing the achievements you will go on to make.”
Students will now progress to a range of destinations, including A level or vocational subjects at sixth form, college or taking up an apprenticeship.
Thorns Collegiate Academy will be hosting an Open Evening on Thursday 17 September for families wanting to learn more about joining year 7 in September 2027. Doors will open from 5.30pm – 8.00pm.
The Academy will also be hosting an open morning on Saturday 19 September, from 9.30am to 12.30pm. No need to book, just turn up.
GCSE subjects are marked under a 1-9 grading system, with 9 being the highest grade. GCSEs are linear in structure rather than modular, with all exams taken at the end of a two-year course.