GCSE students across Telford and Wrekin celebrate success

Young people across Telford and Wrekin are celebrating today (Thurs) as they receive their GCSE results, marking the end of an important chapter in their education and the beginning of exciting new opportunities.

Published on: 20 August 2026

Schools across the Borough have reported strong performances, with hundreds of students celebrating success - highlighting the hard work, determination and resilience they’ve shown throughout their studies.

High grade passes rose across the whole Telford Learning Community Trust, which runs secondary schools across Telford and Wrekin.

They include Hadley Learning Community, Ercall Wood Academy and Charlton School in Wellington, New Road Academy at Wrockwardine Wood and The Burton Borough School in Newport, plus specialist education academies Kickstart and Queensway in Telford.

Many of the schools have recorded their best results since joining the Trust, with 100 per cent pass rates in a long list of subject areas.

Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment and Skills, said:

"Today is a fantastic achievement for young people across Telford and Wrekin, and I would like to congratulate every student receiving their GCSE results.

“Behind every grade is a great deal of commitment, perseverance and hard work, supported by dedicated teachers, school staff, parents and carers.

"Results day is an important milestone and the start of a new journey. Many young people will already be planning their next steps, while others may still be considering their options.

“Whatever their circumstances, support is available to help them find the route that is right for them.

"Through our FutureFocus service, young people can access expert advice and guidance to help them move confidently into further education, training or employment.”

At Burton Borough School in Newport, there were increases in all measures, including a four per cent rise in high grades, and an improvement in Maths and English combined results. The school recorded its best results since moving into the Trust.

Caroline Bedford, Burton Borough School Principal, said:

“This has been a truly special year group, and we are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved.

“Their examination results reflect not only their hard work and determination, but also the exceptional character they have shown.

“Many students have overcome personal challenges with remarkable resilience, demonstrating courage, perseverance and a commitment to one another that has been inspiring to witness.”

At Ercall Wood Academy in Wellington high grade passes rose by seven per cent with English results, and combined Maths and English achievement, above national averages, and an overall increase in science.

Nick Murphy, Ercall Wood Academy Principal, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our students this year.

“These results reflect not only academic success but also the character, perseverance, and commitment our young people have shown throughout their secondary education. Every student should take pride in what they have accomplished.”

At Hadley Learning Community, more than one in five results were high grades, with particularly strong performances in sciences, and a string of distinctions in health and social care, engineering, dance and sport BTECs.

At Charlton School in Wellington, high grade passes were up by three per cent, English results were above national averages, and an average pass of grade four or above was achieved across the vast majority of subjects.

Headlines at New Road Academy in Wrockwardine Wood included a third of languages, statistics and further Maths students achieving high grades, and art and music remaining among the highest achieving areas.

Meanwhile, Kickstart Academy recorded its highest achievement since joining the Trust, including a 100% pass rate for Maths, art, and hospitality and catering.

For many students, the next step will be sixth form, college, an apprenticeship or other training opportunities.

Results day can be an anxious time for young people and their families, but Telford & Wrekin Council provides specialist support for anyone suffering from anxiety following exam results. You can find out more here: https://www.telford.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/exam-support/

Anyone who is unsure about their future plans is also encouraged to seek support from the Council's FutureFocus service.

FutureFocus provides free, impartial careers information, advice and guidance for young people up to the age of 19.

Experienced advisers are available to help young people explore their options, identify suitable pathways and make informed decisions about their future.

Drop-in sessions take place on the ground floor of Southwater One, Monday to Friday, from 10am to 5pm. Young people can also speak to an adviser by calling 01952 388988.

The Council’s Stay Near, Go Far campaign highlights that young people in Telford and Wrekin have access to an incredible range of local opportunities in education, training, and careers and young people don’t have to move away to succeed, they can go far, right here.

Parents of 16 to 19-year-olds starting further education or approved training courses from September are reminded they must extend their Child Benefit claim by 31 August or payments will stop automatically.

Parents can extend their claim in minutes using the HMRC app or GOV.UK.