Excitement, anticipation and celebrations filled the air today at Walton Academy – part of Diverse Academies Trust – as students gathered to eagerly open their GCSE results.

This year marks a significant milestone for Walton Academy, as it is the first-time male students will receive their GCSE results. Previously an all-girls’ school, Walton Academy only offered education to boys in the sixth form. Now, with the inclusion of boys at GCSE level, the school is proud to celebrate this important change in its history.

Principal, Jess Leonard, said: “We are incredibly proud of all our students at Walton Academy, especially as we mark this historic occasion of welcoming our first cohort of boys receiving their GCSE results. Their hard work and dedication, alongside that of our staff, is a testament to the inclusive and supportive environment we strive to create for every student.

“We cannot wait to welcome back those students joining us for their post 16 studies, and for those leaving us today, we wish them every success and happiness for their futures.”

One student celebrating today was Archie Eagle, who was awarded three grade 9s, two grade 8s and a distinction in sports science. Archie said: “I’m really happy with my GCSE results! I’m pleased to have received the grades I needed to continue studying at Walton post 16. It’s a dream come true, and I can’t wait to get started!”

Another student who did incredibly well was Oliver Millard, who achieved two grade 9s in maths and further maths, a grade 8 in history and three grade 7s in geography, physics and chemistry. Oliver will continue his studies at Walton post 16 to study A level English, history, maths and further maths. He said: “It’s great because I know I’m on track to do exactly what I want to do. I’m very happy with my results!”

Delighted with his results and also returning to Walton post 16 was Charlie Tuck, who celebrated a great set of results with one grade 9, three grade 8s and a distinction in music. Charlie said: “It’s hard to put into words, but I did better than I ever expected! The teachers were fantastic, and I’m so grateful for their support. I couldn’t have done it without them.” Charlie will further his studies at A levels in maths, further maths, drama and history.

Celebrations were also in order for Abigail Foote, who was awarded three grade 9s, a grade 8 in photography, a grade 8/7 in combined science, and a distinction in health and social care. Abigail said: “I’m so happy and relieved that the wait is over! It feels great to finally have my results.”

Another student who did incredibly well was Destiny Ogbeta. Achieving one grade 9 in English literature, two grade 8s in English language and religious studies, and four grade 7s in combined science, maths and history.  She will take up a place at Walton post 16 to further her studies. On receiving her results, Destiny commented: “I’m really excited about my results! I can’t wait to start at Walton Post 16 and see what’s next.”

The academy invites any students yet to secure a place with a post 16 provider for this September or students considering their post-GCSE options to visit www.walton-ac.org.uk/sixth-form/our-sixth-form/ or email enquiries@walton-ac.org.uk for more information.