College is Calling at Bootham

The College at Bootham School is preparing to welcome its newest cohort of students, following a strong set of GCSE results in 2025. With 78% of all Bootham’s GCSE results coming in at the top grades 9 – 6 (previously A*-B), Year 11 students are now perfectly positioned to continue their education through the school’s wide-ranging A Level programme.

Bootham enjoyed a 100% pass rate across an array of GCSE subjects including English Literature, Art, Music, Drama, Computer Science, Chemistry, French, Further Mathematics and Latin, providing a solid foundation for pupils, whatever their individual interests. Modern languages were a particular highlight, with 100% of French results scoring grades 9 and 8. In total, 59% of all results were graded at the highest grades 9 –7 (previously A*-A).

Among the many individual successes were Nancy Otterburn, Martha Orton, William Gale, Clara Whitby, Eve Whitelock, Finley Hamilton and Charlie Blackwell who each earned a full set of 9s and 8s. Eve, who will now go on to study English, French and Classics A Levels at Bootham, said “I am looking forward to starting my A Levels and specialising in the subjects I really enjoy, College here also brings with it a new sense of independence.”

Ellayana Roberts, who today achieved seven grade 9s, two grade 8s and one grade 7, reflected on her GCSE years “I’ve had so much support at Bootham, and the teachers here really bring their subjects to life.”

Head Deneal Smith watched with pride as his Year 11 students opened their results envelopes this morning. He said “The GCSE results successes in 2025, achieved across such a wide range of subjects, show how Bootham supports each student to discover and develop their individual strengths. As they move into our College, I am excited to see our Year 11s build on these foundations – not only in their academic studies, but also through the many opportunities they will have to grow in confidence, curiosity and to contribute positively to their community.”

At Bootham, College life extends far beyond A Levels, students are encouraged to take part in a rich programme that fosters participation and leadership, wellbeing, social action and intellectual curiosity. This holistic approach prepares young people not only for university and careers but also for lives of purpose and service – values deeply rooted in the Quaker tradition of the school.

Images:

Image 1 – Bootham School’s GCSE results recipients with Head, Deneal Smith

Image 2 – Students and staff at Bootham School have been celebrating today’s many GCSE success stories