Wellington College's A level results set new record

This year's A level results at Wellington College have set a new record for the school, with 93.3 per cent of candidates achieving A and B grades, improving on last year's score of 91.8 per cent, with A* grades being awarded to 18.8 per cent.

The results are particularly outstanding because this year group entered the school before it became more academically selective and some of the strongest in the year sat the International Baccalaureate Diploma instead of A levels.

The percentage of A grades was 62.9 per cent and 24.8 per cent of students achieved straight A grades.  Grades A-C were attained by 99 percent of candidates, and almost all those applying to university met their first offer.

Since Dr Anthony Seldon became Master, the school's academic performance has soared, from 65 per cent A/B grades in 2004. Dr Seldon puts this success down to the hard work of students and staff and a dramatic change in ethos, including the teaching of positive psychology and well-being, an eight-aptitude model as a guiding principle in academic, co-curricular and pastoral domains, and innovative approaches such as the use of the Harkness method and lessons in thinking.

"This was a unique year for us, with staff and pupils having to adapt to new style A Levels and the first IB cohort taking their Diplomas," said Dr Anthony Seldon, Master (headmaster).  "Our pupils are taught to think positively, to be self-disciplined and self-reliant. We set great store by effort grades, we keep a close eye on every individual and have high expectations of everyone here. These results show what can be achieved in an atmosphere of trust, encouragement and watchful support.  I am absolutely delighted for all the students who have turned in such stellar A level results while still finding time to take part in teams, plays, concerts, fundraisers and expeditions."

Despite significantly tougher entry requirements, both academic and 'all-round', the school's popularity continues to rise, with at least three applicants for every place, and the school roll in September 2010 approaching 1,000. 

The school's first IB results were also impressive, with 88 per cent of students gaining grades 5, 6 and 7, and an average score of 35.2 points which is equivalent to three A* grades at A2 and one grade A at AS.

Justin Garrick, Deputy (Academic) at Wellington, said, "In this most competitive year for university entry I am very pleased indeed to see our students do so well.  They and their teachers have worked very hard for these outstanding results, which are a great complement to the College's very strong first ever IB results."