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Students celebrate exceptional A level results across York and North Yorkshire

Welcome to our coverage of A level results day 2025!

Students at schools and colleges across York and North Yorkshire are receiving their results today.

We’re adding more pictures and details as they come in, so keep checking back. And congratulations all!

CONTINUES BELOW

Archbishop Holgate’s School

The school said today’s celebration “continue our pattern of outstanding performance at post-16 and demonstrate the hard work, commitment and aspiration of the young people within our care”.

Their efforts have resulted in:

  • 41% of all entries graded A* to A
  • 77% of all entries graded A* to B
  • 41.5% of A Level entries graded A* to A
  • 100% of entries graded A* to E

Mrs De Lashley, Head of Sixth Form said: “This cohort are already truly missed, they have drive, care for each other and grounded humour. These results add to them as well rounded individuals and they are so deserved.

“They have been determined and continued to take up opportunities to develop themselves personally alongside their commitment to study. We wish them all the very best for the future but remain confident that they won’t need any luck to lead fulfilling lives.”

Headteacher, Lucie Pond, said: “As a school, we could not be prouder of the remarkable achievements of our Year 13 students. These results are a true reflection of the hard work and resilience that they have demonstrated throughout their studies.

“I would like to extend my thanks to our dedicated teaching team for their tireless efforts. Equally, I am grateful for the unwavering support from parents and carers who have helped our students achieve their very best.

“Finally, I want to thank our Year 13 students, many of whom have been part of the Archbishop Holgate’s school family for seven years, for their invaluable contributions to our school. We wish you all the very best for your bright futures that lie ahead.”

Huntington School

Huntington School is celebrating “exceptional A-Level and Level 3 examination outcomes for the Class of 2025, marking another year of academic excellence and student achievement”.

Headteacher Matt Smith said: “We are absolutely delighted with the results achieved by our Year 13 students.

“Their hard work, resilience, and commitment have paid off, and they should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished.

“These results reflect not only the talent and determination of our students but also the dedication of our staff and the support of families and our wider school community.

“Huntington School’s consistent performance at Key Stage 5 every single year highlights its commitment to high-quality teaching, inclusive education, and student wellbeing.”

This year, Huntington students have excelled across a wide range of subjects, with a significant proportion securing the top grades.

Hugh Richards, the school’s new director of sixth form said: “These results reveal exceptional progress for students from a wide range of starting points, which is testament to both the quality of our brilliant teaching team, pastoral support as well as the students’ own hard work. We are very proud of all of our leavers and are excited to hear from them as they settle into their next steps.”

Fulford School

Fulford School congratulated their students on “their outstanding A-Level and vocational qualification results”.

Headteacher Russell Harris said: “This remarkable year group has not only achieved academic excellence, but has also been at the heart of school life – demonstrating leadership, compassion, and a genuine sense of community throughout their time in the Sixth Form.”

A significant proportion of students achieved top grades, with over 75% of all entries awarded A*-B, and over 40% securing A*/A grades. Vocational results were truly impressive, with all students achieving Distinction or Distinction* across their subjects.

Mr Harris said: “We are thrilled that many students have secured places at top universities, including all students that applied to Oxbridge, medicine and veterinary medicine being successful.

“Others will be joining competitive apprenticeship programmes and pursuing exciting career paths across the country. Whatever their next steps, they leave us equipped not only with excellent qualifications, but with the confidence, values and drive to shape their futures.

“But their success goes far beyond grades. This cohort has embraced every opportunity— academically, culturally, and socially—and left a lasting legacy. They’ve been role models to younger students and have shown unwavering commitment to leadership and community outreach.

“These achievements are a testament not only to the students’ hard work, but also to the dedication of our staff. Their support and high-quality teaching have been instrumental in helping students reach their potential.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to students, staff, families, and our wider community. Fulford is a special place, and these results reflect the strength of our school and the bright futures ahead for our young people.

“As these exceptional young adults move on, they do so with our admiration and gratitude. Their contributions to Fulford Sixth Form have been invaluable, and we look forward to seeing all they go on to achieve.”

Joseph Rowntree School

Joseph Rowntree School headteacher David Hewitt spoke of his delight at the outstanding results achieved by students in Year 13.

“Our Year 13 students have been a great group of students to work with and we are delighted with the results they have achieved. It is always a pleasure to see students heading off to their next steps having done so well in school.

“We wish them all the best and look forward to hearing about their success and careers in the future.”

Matt Cannon, director of sixth form, said: “I couldn’t be more proud of the achievements of this outstanding group of young people.

“Whilst the results themselves are exceptional, they are not our sole measure of this fantastic group’s success. Their thoughtful, thorough, and consistent approach to their work over two years meant they were well prepared to meet challenges, all while maintaining a healthy balance with their other commitments.

“It has been a privilege to work with such a personable and good-humoured group, and I wish them every success for what lies ahead, whatever path they choose. “

This year, more than 30% of all grades were awarded at A* or A, exceeding targeted expectations, with more than 58% at A*-B and 82% at A*-C. Double Award BTEC Courses achieved an outstanding 100% D*D*-MM, while Single Award BTEC Courses achieved 60% D*-M.

Mr Cannon said: “I would like to thank all students, their families, and teachers for the support shown over the last two years.

“I wish each of our Year 13 leavers the very best in both their immediate next steps and their long-term futures, and I look forward to hearing from them as they complete apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships,  university degrees, and progress in their careers.”

York College

York College & University Centre is today celebrating their best set of A Level, T Level and vocational course exam results since 2019.

The college has witnessed a rise of 6.4% for high grades (A*/A/B) on their A Level courses with an overall pass rate across all subjects of 99.8%.

Distinction grades, meanwhile, have improved by 11.4% for vocational courses and more than 80% of students have received offers for their first-choice university place.

Among the students celebrating today was Joshua Davies, who is heading to the University of Cambridge where he will study Engineering at Trinity Hall College.

Joshua achieved three A* A Level grades in further maths, maths and physics, as well as an a in music technology and said: “i needed maths and physics to study engineering at university and music technology was a fun option to add to my other A levels.

” I chose York College as I knew it was the best option to help me prepare for university and my tutors have been excellent throughout my time here.”

Alice Goulding, meanwhile, will start an acting for screen degree at Leeds Arts University next month after gaining A grades in drama, film studies and business.

She said: “I loved the practical nature of my drama course and the passion of the film studies teachers, who knew everything about the industry. York College has a great variety of subjects to choose from and I love the freedom you get here.

“I’m really looking forward to university now and, hopefully, want to become an actress or a screenwriter.”

Another student excited about his next steps is Sylvian Wheeler, who is going on to study archaeology, history and literature of Ancient Greece at the University of Athens after securing an A grade in German, a B in French and a C in ancient history.

He said: “I’ve always enjoyed and been passionate about learning languages and studying history, so the A Levels were a great combination for me.”

Abigail Barton was also delighted with the triple distinction* grades that she gained on her applied science vocational course, which secured her a place at the University of Liverpool to study biochemistry.

She said: “I’ve been nervous about my results all summer, but I feel on top of the world now. I originally began my journey studying A Levels, but quickly decided they weren’t for me, so I switched to applied science.

“I found the course work and style of learning really worked for me and my tutors have been amazing throughout my time here.”

Isaac Cook was equally elated with the two distinction grades and a merit he gained on the Uniformed Protective Services vocational course that have seen him accepted into the RAF.

“I’m really pleased with my results,” he enthused. “I got what I needed to join the RAF and did a bit better than predicted.

“I did the UPS course because I thought it would be my best way of getting into the RAF as, with the tutors at College, I knew I’d be receiving help with my application from people who have been through the process before.”

Dylan Todd, meanwhile, is now looking to secure an apprenticeship having received a Distinction grade for his two-year T Level course in building services engineering for construction – electrical installation, where his studies were combined with 315 hours on work placement.

“I studied A Levels previously but decided I wanted to become an electrician,” he pointed out. “I started looking for an apprenticeship but couldn’t find one, and that’s when I discovered the T Level.

“This was great as it has allowed me to get started on my journey to become an electrician and provided a good introduction.”

York College Principal & Chief Executive Ken Merry congratulated all those who had contributed to a fantastic set of results, whilst also reminding students who might not have gained their desired grades that support is available for them as they consider their next steps.

“For many of our students, the wait for Level 3 Results Day can feel like a lifetime,” Mr Merry said. “Whether studying A Levels, T Levels, or other vocational qualifications, today marks the moment when all that dedication, focus and determination is recognised.

“These results are the product of two – and in some cases three or four – years of incredible hard work, perseverance and resilience and we couldn’t be prouder or more thrilled to see so many of our students achieving fantastic grades.

“For many, these grades are the launchpad to exciting new chapters – from prestigious university courses to competitive apprenticeships or stepping straight into rewarding careers.

“Whatever their chosen path, it’s inspiring to hear the amazing opportunities our students are embracing next. Every conversation about their future plans reminds us why we do what we do, and just how special it is to play a part in their journey.

“From all of us at York College, congratulations to our brilliant students. We wish you every success in your next adventure – and hope today is filled with celebration, pride, and plenty of smiles.”

The Mount

Sounds of joy and hugs of celebration were the order of the day at The Mount where pupils’ hard work was rewarded on results day. 

The Mount secured the perfect ten with 100% A*- B grades achieved in ten subjects including languages, geography, maths and physics.  

The art department performed exceptionally well with 100% A* grades, and Textiles and Chinese saw 100% of pupils achieve A*- A grades. 

Many girls outperformed their predicted grades after working so hard, with 69% of girls achieving at least one grade A or A* at A Level and others achieving two or more. 

Among today’s achievers was Kiera, whose creativity was rewarded with three superb A*s in art, textiles and Chinese.

Berlin got an A* in art and an A ingGeography,  and a grade A for her thoughtful, Geography-based EPQ which saw her consider how we can all make York more sustainable, with an emphasis on architecture and CAD design, another of her talents.

Lisa’s commitment to her studies is inspiring, taking four A Levels and one EPQ. With a strong performance across all her A Levels, including psychology and English literature and language, her A and A* in Italian and Russian stand out.

Soraja was delighted to be awarded a coveted place at The Faculty of Dentistry with Clinic in her home city of Sarajevo. 

Head Anna Wilby said: “I have got to know this cohort of girls well in my wonderful first sixth months at The Mount. I am consistently proud of all they are, and all they have achieved. These girls are exceptional and I applaud them all. 

In a competitive exam landscape, it has been great to see our girls focused and heads down, committed to revision under the expert guidance of our hardworking teachers. Excellent Sixth Form study habits have led them to achieve to the very best of their abilities which is all we can ask.  

I’m delighted that they have today reaped the deserved rewards which mark the first stage of their next steps.  

Today is a wonderful reminder of the benefits of an all-girls senior school education as we see our pupils achieving the highest grades in such an impressive range of subjects.”  

Bootham School

Bootham School enjoyed another year of excellent A Level results today, with 45% of all grades awarded at A* and A.

A school spokesperson said: “Over a quarter of students secured three A grades or better, and they leave the York Quaker school not only with the academic qualifications for the next stage of their education, but also with a readiness to contribute to society, a grounded sense of self-worth and a lasting commitment to integrity and equality.”

Four students secured places at Cambridge and Oxford. Cambridge will welcome Issy Ashforth (Classics), Dominic Thunhurst (Natural Sciences) and Olivia Whitby (Modern and Medieval Languages).

Twins Yasmin and Francesca Seedat are celebrating places at the University of Oxford (History of Art) and Arts University Bournemouth (Animation Production) respectively after getting the grades they need, including an A* and A in Art. Art results were a particular highlight at Bootham this year, with 75% of grades at A*-A and eight students progressing to art-based courses.  

Whilst seven students achieved a notable trio of A* grades, today’s A Level results also reflect every Bootham student’s individuality, with a wide range of degree choices. Abigail Marsh will study Contemporary Dance, Aerial Arts and Physical Theatre at the University of Chichester,

Lily Latham will study Arabic and French at the University of Manchester and Ruby Salter will study American Theatre Arts at Rose Bruford College, she says: “I’m over the moon with my two A*s and two A’s! I’ve decided to study American Theatre Arts at Rose Bruford College, as the course is really versatile and will help me develop even further in the drama industry.

“Bootham truly supported and encouraged me to be myself, and really pushed me to be creative – it helped me become a well-rounded person. That’s something I want to keep building on.”

Others have their sights set on global destinations, with Martha Clough heading stateside to Penn State University and Anahit Davtyan taking up Law in Society at Vrije University, Amsterdam.

Bootham Head Deneal Smith commented “Our aim at Bootham School is to prepare students – intellectually and personally – to lead adventurous and fulfilling lives that benefit not only themselves, but also the wider society.

“I am deeply proud of what our College students have achieved today; regardless of their starting point, each has made the most of the opportunities available at Bootham. Alongside their strong results, their success is reflected in the character, compassion and confidence they now carry with them.”

Queen Ethelburga’s

Students and staff at Queen Ethelburga’s are celebrating today after an exceptional set of A Level and BTEC results, reflecting the hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment of the entire school community.

This year’s cohort has achieved an impressive 77% of students achieving A*-A grades and 91% securing A*-B grades. These outcomes continue Queen Ethelburga’s strong tradition of academic excellence.

Daniel Machin, Principal of Queen Ethelburga’s said: “We are incredibly proud of our students, this year’s cohort has included a huge number of students who have been with us since prep school, along with more recent starters who have made a fantastic contribution to school life.

“These results reflect their efforts to make the most of all of the opportunities available to them.

“Thank you to our dedicated teachers and the support of our QE parents and families, without whom none of this would have been possible.”

Thirsk School and Sixth-Form College

Students and their teachers at Thirsk School and Sixth-Form College are celebrating a strong set of A-level results with many of the teenagers achieving better than expected grades across the board. 

A particular success was in the school’s vocational qualifications, with 83 per cent of results being the equivalent of an A or A*.

Ripon Grammar School

The hard work of Ripon Grammar School students paid off with an outstanding set of A-level results, among the best in the history of the school.

The vast majority of students secured their first-choice degree course places at some of the country’s most prestigious universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.

This year’s cohort achieved remarkable results, with 81.1 per cent of grades awarded at A*/B and 52.5 per cent of all grades at A*/A. 

Among the top performers are Will Bellaries, Elizabeth Bordewich and Henry Simpson, who achieved a clean sweep of four A* grades, with a fourth student, Leena Athab, achieving three A*s and one A grade and four students achieving three A* grades.

Student Isabelle Whitehead secured a place at the University of Liverpool to study medicine after being inspired by the doctors and nurses who looked after her disabled brother. The 18-year-old achieved A grades in chemistry and geography and a B in biology.