Biggest league improvement in exam results since league tables began

This week's A level results are Wellington's most improved since records began. 

Seventy nine per cent of students achieved A and B grades, an improvement of 10 per cent on the sixty nine per cent reached in 2005. Ninety four per cent of passes were graded A-C. 

New headmaster Dr Anthony Seldon said he was thrilled by the performance of the students. "Considering that this year group was not as strong academically as last year's, the results are quite remarkable. It is a tremendous tribute to the pupils and their teachers."  

Seldon said on his arrival in January 2006 that he would propel Wellington College out of the academic 'third division' into the second division by 2006, and the first division by 2007.

"These 2006 results (link to Telegraph results - pdf file) put Wellington right at the very top of the second division and the AS level results make the prediction of being in the first division in 2007 secure. 

"What pleases me more than anything is that this massive increase in performance by the Upper VI was not at the cost of their all-round contribution to school life. The year group's performance at sport and the arts was of exceptional national quality.

However, he confirmed that the school will still press ahead with the introduction of the International Baccalaureate, announced earlier this year.

 "Even though the A and AS level results show that Wellington College has now mastered these exams, I remain delighted that we are going to be offering the International Baccalaureate as an alternative from 2008. For many pupils, it is a much more enriching and challenging course of study."

For some vital statistics, see our Results page