A Bridgend secondary school is marking its 60th anniversary with a major academic achievement after being named among the top 10% of schools in England and Wales for its GCSE results.
Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School in Brackla, which first opened its doors to pupils in September 1965, has consistently been among the top performing schools at GCSE when compared to similar schools in recent years.
Now, the school has received the ALPS Platinum Award, a national measure recognising exceptional GCSE value-added performance, ranking in the top 10% of schools for pupil progress.
The ALPS Platinum Award is given to schools whose pupils make outstanding progress compared to their starting points, placing them among the best in the country. It confirms that students at Archbishop McGrath are achieving grades significantly above expectations – a testament to the school’s high standards of teaching and the strength of relationships between staff, pupils, and families.
Headteacher Ashley Howells said: “This is a fabulous achievement and a wonderful way to celebrate our 60th year. This award reflects the high quality of both teaching and pastoral support pupils receive at our school which allows them to achieve their full potential.
For 60 years, Archbishop McGrath has always placed the achievement of all pupils – regardless of their ability – at the heart of its work, and this award is a proud reflection of that commitment.”
Jackie Phillips, Chair of Governors, said: “Archbishop McGrath is truly a community school where every individual is supported to become the very best version of themselves – academically, spiritually, and morally.”
The award comes after an exceptional set of exam results for Archbishop McGrath. As well as GCSE success, 97% of Year 13 students achieved three or more A-levels, with 74 % securing grades A-C*. Following this, an incredible 95% of students were offered their first or second choice of university courses.
The school offers sixth form students a wide range of A-level and vocational options, and works closely with other local sixth forms and colleges to extend the offer further.
Archbishop McGrath’s Sixth Form Open Evening takes place from 4.30pm on December 9th.
