A Level Results Day 2026

Celebrating the Class of 2026 as outstanding A Level results honour a landmark farewell

Exceptional results for a remarkable year group as Withington celebrates the Class of 2026 and bids farewell to Headmistress, Mrs Sarah Haslam, after 30 years of service.

Withington Girls’ School is celebrating another year of outstanding A Level success as pupils in the Class of 2026 receive their results today, with close to four in five grades achieved at A* or A and 61% of the cohort earning results that include three A*/A grades.

WGS A Levels 2026 at a glance

• 34.1% at the top A*
• 78.6% A* to A
• 94.8% A* to B
• 12 pupils achieved at least three top A* grades
• The results of 44 students (62%) included three or more A*/A grades
• 66% of the cohort completed an Extended Project Qualification and 81% achieved an A or A*
• All eight students who received conditional Oxbridge offers have secured their places
• Other destinations include Russell Group universities, an Art Foundation course, the Royal Northern College of Music and a sought-after degree apprenticeship at EY

These excellent results reflect not only academic dedication and intellectual curiosity, but also the breadth of achievement that has characterised this year group throughout their time at Withington. Their legacy includes memorable musical performances, major productions such as Legally Blonde Jr and Sister Act, a raft of sporting accolades and enthusiastic participation in activities such as Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Young Enterprise, Model United Nations and a host of leadership and community engagement activities.

Headmistress, Mrs Sarah Haslam, said:

“The Class of 2026 has been an extraordinary group of young women and I’m immensely proud of everything they have achieved. The diversity of their further studies – from marine biology through various engineering disciplines, including aeronautical and chemical, to Art Foundation and Music courses – says so much about their individuality and confidence to pursue their dreams.

“Their examination results are richly deserved, but what has impressed me most has been their willingness to embrace opportunities beyond the classroom, to support one another and to make a positive difference to the wider school community.”

Mrs Haslam also paid tribute to the dedicated support of the students by Withington’s staff:

“Many parents and students comment on the generosity of staff in terms of time, expertise and care. It is this, along with the excellent teaching, outstanding pastoral care and myriad activities and opportunities to learn and grow, that enables our pupils to thrive.”

A Double Farewell

This year’s Results Day is particularly poignant as it marks not only the departure of the Class of 2026 but also the end of an era for Withington Girls’ School, with Mrs Haslam stepping down after 30 years of service and 10 years of distinguished leadership.

During her decade as Headmistress, Mrs Haslam has overseen a period of continued academic excellence, innovation and growth, while remaining steadfast in her commitment to educating confident, capable and compassionate young women.

The achievements of the Class of 2026 provide a fitting tribute to her vision and leadership.

“We wish each of our leavers every success as they embark on their next exciting chapter – they do so with the knowledge, confidence and character to thrive, and we look forward to following their future successes,” Mrs Haslam concluded.

Director of Sixth Form, Ms Elizabeth Robinson, said:

“It’s been a pleasure to work with and support such an incredible group of young women over the past two years. I have witnessed their hard work and dedication to their studies and a real commitment to the school community. There has been much fun and laughter along the way too. It was a joy to celebrate with them today and I truly wish them every success in the future.”

As students now prepare to take their next steps—whether to university, apprenticeships, or gap year adventures— Withington remains committed to supporting them further if needed, and to nurturing future cohorts with the same holistic approach to education that has delivered success again this year.

Withington Girls’ School is consistently ranked as the top independent school in the North West for academic results, with a reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and a strong focus on wellbeing. The WGS Sixth Form Information Evening will take place on Wednesday 7 October from 6-8pm. Please complete an enquiry form to be kept updated of the Sixth Form admissions process.

Updated: 13-08-2026