GCSE Results Day 2025

With 58.1% of all GCSE grades awarded at grade 9, Withington Girls’ School continues to be the place where girls shine.

Withington Girls’ School is proudly celebrating the achievements of its Year 11 students, whose GCSE results include some of the highest proportion of top grades in recent years. Almost half of this group achieved all subjects at grade 8 or 9 and more than four in five (82.2%) of all grades were grade 8 or 9.

Headmistress, Mrs Sarah Haslam praised the students’ achievements, saying:

“These exceptional results are a testament to our students’ dedication and the vibrant, supportive environment that defines Withington. There is a truly special bond within our school. It is built on mutual respect, encouragement and a shared purpose. Students and staff work in close partnership to nurture both academic achievement and personal growth.”

The Withington Upper Fifth of 2025 achieved 92.9% of results at grade 7 and above. Nine students achieved nine grade 9s and an additional nine students achieved 10 or more grade 9s – including two who achieved 12 grade 9s.

Mr Tom Bennett, Deputy Head Academic, commented on the value Withington has added:

“On average, students achieved well over a grade-and-a-half above their baseline predictions, showing the exceptional added value of a Withington education. This outstanding progress reflects not only the academic strength of our pupils, but also the impact of high-quality teaching and the inspiring learning environment where academic achievement and wellbeing go hand in hand.”

Zoe, who achieved 11 grade 9s, relocated from Munich, Germany, for the start of Year 7 in 2020:

“I immediately felt like I settled in well. It was great from the start! It’s a really amazing community where I have felt very supported by both teachers and friends. There’s no pressure on us from the school. In fact, they actively help us to avoid stress by ensuring we are well prepared.”

Anna, who also achieved 11 grade 9s, plays for Heaton Mersey Club and the England Lacrosse regional academy.

“It’s been a great experience. From joining in Year 6 and then integrating with the new Year 7s, I have always felt that we all encourage each other. The relationships we have with our teachers is very special and some even would come in to personally wish us good luck before our exams. As a year group, we are very close. It’s lovely to be here today and seeing so many happy smiles.”

Withington’s GCSE results reflect excellence across a broad spectrum of subjects. A significant proportion of pupils achieved grade 8 or 9 in core STEM subjects, including Chemistry (87%) and Mathematics (85%), as well as in Design Technology (87%) and Food and Nutrition (95%).

95% of grades in Food and Nutrition were awarded at 8 or 9

Success extended across the humanities and languages, with 93% of students attaining top grades in History and 92% in French. Creative and classical subjects also flourished, with all students taking Drama, Latin and Music securing grade 8 or 9. In English Language and English Literature, an impressive 96.3% of grades were 7 or above.

92% of grades in French were awarded at 8 or 9

Mrs Haslam emphasised that academic achievement is just one facet of the many talents demonstrated by this exceptional group of pupils.

“Our Year 11s have highlighted the depth of talent within our school and the richness of their experiences beyond the classroom. From national sports competitions and musical performances to Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and charity initiatives, Withington students embrace every opportunity to grow, lead and participate,” she concluded.

Emilie (right), who plays lacrosse for Scotland and county level netball for Cheshire, achieved 8 grade 9s and 1 grade 8, said:

“Academically there is so much support available if needed which has been invaluable. I’ve gone from struggling with French at the start of Year 11 to getting a grade 9 today, thanks to the personal tuition my teachers provided. But I have never felt pressurised. There’s a real community feel, such a buzz in school where I have always felt supported and encouraged.”

“I am incredibly proud of this Year 11 group. Not only for their exceptional results, but for the determination, kindness and compassion they have shown to one another and to their studies. It has been a sheer delight to be their Head of Year over the past two years, and I look forward to seeing their continued progress in our Sixth Form,”

said Mr Mark Williams, Head of Year 11.

With progression into Withington’s Sixth Form guaranteed for Year 11 pupils, this group is well positioned to join a number of new students from schools across Greater Manchester and beyond, who have also excelled in their GCSE examinations and are ready for the exciting challenge that Withington’s Sixth Form offers.

Withington Girls’ School is consistently ranked as the top independent school in the North West, with a reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and a strong focus on wellbeing. The WGS Sixth Form Information Evening will take place on Tuesday 30 September from 5-7pm. Please complete an enquiry form to be kept updated of the Sixth Form admissions process.