Celebrations at Sidmouth College’s GCSE league table achievement

FOR the first time ever, Sidmouth College has exceeded attainment performance targets at GCSE level, placing it ninth in this year’s GCSE league table results for Devon.

Last year the school reached 15th place on the league tables for Devon.

Each school receives Contextual Value Added points (CVA) from Government, depending on how its Year 11 students perform in their exams.

This year, for the first time, it received 1,014 points, smashing the 1,000 mark barrier.

Ninth place on the league tables – excluding independent schools – has delighted students, staff and governors at Sidmouth College.

Acting principal Julie Capewell said: “I am deliriously happy, we exceeded what we expected to do, we well and truly exceeded targets set.

“But we are not complacent; there is lots to be done. I really see the school is most definitely heading in the right direction.”

Chairman of governors, Gary Neal, said: “I am absolutely delighted. I think it is fantastic.”

He congratulated staff and students for their hard work “and those extra bits of effort, care and support that goes into getting the best results for youngsters as possible.”

He said the rapid progress in the league tables demonstrated the overall progress being made at Sidmouth College.

“This is a positive message to the community, we couldn’t do this without the support of parents. When you get all factors contributing you have a greater chance of making progress.”

He said principal Jeremy Roberts’ “strong vision” for the college, fantastic teamwork and improved quality of teaching were important elements in the college’s achievement.

“The hard work of the staff at the school and the response has been absolutely fantastic. When you get people pulling together and then get something like this it pulls you up.

“It is an indication of the vision and direction Jeremy has brought to the school.

“There is strong leadership in the school and the school’s direction will continue to improve and develop.”

For the first time last year, the English Baccalaureate was introduced, given to students achieving C grade or above in five core subjects – maths, English, two science qualifications, a foreign language and either history or geography.

While there has been criticism of this nationally, Mr Neal said it was very early days to comment on it.

*Our picture shows Year 11 students at their awards night last month collecting GCSE certificates, a shield for achievement and endeavour from Sidmouth Lions and an award from Sidmouth Garden Centre for the rural dimension at the college.