League tables distort students’ success

Following last week’s release of national league tables, Holy Trinity School in Kidderminster is delighted to clarify students’ achievements in regard to the school’s GCSE and A level results. Despite achieving a ‘0’ on the league tables for 5 A* to C grades, Holy Trinity achieved an 85% pass rate which is above the Worcestershire expectation of 75%, a figure that makes Holy Trinity the top performing school in the Wyre Forest. With regard to the number of pupils achieving 5 A* – C grades including English and Maths, Holy Trinity exceeded county expectations by 13% - placing the school third in the county league table. Holy Trinity School Headteacher, Mrs Pamela Leek-Wright commented: “The reason these statistics were not recorded on the league table was due to the fact that Holy Trinity School offers the IGCSE in English, which is not acknowledged in the statistics. Therefore, our students did exceptionally well. “With regard to A level results, these are on a par with the previous year, as was the cohort of students. Although admissions to Sixth Form have undergone a review, our philosophy has always been one of inclusion, not exclusion, allowing our students to achieve their maximum potential. “Therefore, although our point score was lower than some schools, all of our students gained their first choice destination and have moved successfully from the school as confident, mature and well-motivated individuals, characteristics that are so valuable in the world of work and society in general.” Holy Trinity’s figures were also affected a the number of part time students, which impacts on the average point score achieved, as does the school’s small student cohort. Said Mrs Leek-Wright: “Ultimately, we are very proud that our student pass rate was 100% and above the national figures.”