South Devon High School students celebrating GCSE results

South Devon High School GCSE students are celebrating today as they collect their exam results.

This year sees high grades 7-9 almost doubling against last year’s results in English and maths.

As well as achieving top marks in their GCSEs, High School students are also celebrating fantastic results in Level 2 technical qualifications. This year sees a 100% achievement in subjects as diverse as automotive: animal care, childcare, sport, travel and tourism.

Layla Petrakis, 16, from Paignton, achieved good passes in GCSE geography, history, English, maths and science alongside a Level 2 technical qualification in adventure sports, achieving a Distinction*. She now plans to study adventure sports at South Devon College with the aim of becoming a fire fighter or joining the military.

She said: “I found the High School experience a lot of fun. The teachers were very supportive, and I could approach them with any concerns or worries I had – they were only ever a message away if I needed help with any homework.

“They made the subjects enjoyable and were down to earth so you could have a laugh and joke with them.”

Layla’s mum Angela said: “We’ve had nothing but positive outcomes with both our daughters at the High School. The smaller class sizes suited Layla and the teachers were all amazing, responding swiftly to any concerns we may have had - if we needed an appointment with any teachers we could get one the following day.

“The choice of options Layla could choose from was a bonus - the hands-on experience with animal care was something she wouldn’t receive at any other school. I would definitely recommend the High School to all parents - Layla was a different child from day one and she finally enjoyed going to school and was finally happy.”

Tyler Phillips, 16, from Paignton, achieved grades 6-8 in GCSE history, geography, maths, English and science and a Distinction*in Level 2 sports coaching.

He said: “Sports coaching was by far my favourite subject - I really enjoyed it. I plan to continue to South Devon College to study sports science. In the future, I hope to become a physiotherapist.

“At the High School I actually started to enjoy going to school. Before, I used to dread it, but this school changed that for me. I felt more like an individual and not just one of many.

“I felt comfortable asking the teachers for help, and they would always find solutions quickly. Their support made a big difference.

“I really enjoyed my time at the High School and would definitely recommend it to anyone thinking about going.”

Tyler’s mum Terrie agreed. She said: “What stood out to me was the wide range of different subjects they offer. It gives the students more chances to try new things and find out what they enjoy outside of the usual lessons.

“It was the right place for Tyler because of the way the school is run. The students are treated fairly and with respect, and the teaching style is modern and allows them to be themselves.

“Tyler's confidence has come on so much since joining the High School. The teachers have been supportive and encouraging, and that’s really helped his grades. He’s worked hard, and the support leading up to GCSEs, especially over the half term, was brilliant.

“We've been really impressed, which is why my daughter is continuing at the College this September.”

Another student celebrating today was Lauren Loyns. She achieved grade 7s in GCSE English language and science; a grade 8 in maths and a Merit in Level 2 BTEC in animal care.

Lauren plans to study A Levels in maths, chemistry and biology at South Devon College with a view to pursue a pathology apprenticeship.

She said: “I really enjoyed my time at the High School and had an amazing experience. I liked that the class sizes were smaller than at school and I was able to wear my own clothes.

"All the staff are great. The teachers really do care. The level of teaching was great and there was always lots of help and support from them. I felt listened to and respected by the staff.”

Lauren’s mum Nicky has been equally as impressed with the High School experience: “The High School has helped Lauren grow both educationally and in confidence. The staff treat the students with great respect and kindness and give them all the time they need - nothing is too much trouble. 

“I will forever sing the praises of the High School and the fabulous staff that work in it - we will be eternally grateful for every member of staff that made the experience such a positive one.”

Clara Wright, 16, from Torquay, has achieved grade 7 in GCSE maths, English literature, history and geography, and a fantastic grade 9 in English language alongside a Distinction in games development and a Distinction* in adventure sport.

“I really loved my time at the High School thanks to the empowering environment and amazing friends I made! I genuinely loved every subject I took!

“All the teachers were extremely supportive, and you could really tell that they were trying to push you to be the best you can!

“I am planning to continue on to South Devon College to take four A-Levels in physics, English literature, politics and geography – I also want to join the debating club!"

Wendy, Clara’s mum, said: “Clara transferred to the High School because she was very unhappy at her previous school and, very quickly, I knew we had made the right decision. Since joining, Clara has flourished. Thanks to the support and encouragement of her teachers, her confidence has completely changed.

“The High School is modern and up to date, with excellent facilities and easy access to laptops for pupils who need them. The teachers and staff treat the students with respect, showing genuine care and encouragement, while adapting to the needs of each individual.”

Matt Burrows, Head of South Devon High School, said: “I am delighted with the achievements of our pupils and the positive progress they have made. It has been wonderful to see them thrive within the school.

“The results are an excellent reward for all the pupils' hard work, and it is a testament to the outstanding support and guidance provided by their teachers, and the innovative curriculum we offer. Pupils can now look forward to their exciting next steps, with many progressing to A Levels or technical and professional courses at South Devon College.

“Congratulations to all our GCSE students – we're very proud of you all and look forward to seeing you progress further in your education.”

South Devon High School is committed to giving young people the best chance to succeed by combining academic and technical qualifications and providing a nationally-recognised careers programme and exceptional personal development. In June 2024 the School was recognised by Ofsted as ‘Outstanding’.

High School students now have excellent progression opportunities into further and higher education, with over 70% of GCSE pupils this year expected to progress on to study either A-Levels or specific technical qualifications at Level 3. For more information about South Devon High School, visit the Open Event at the High School in October. Alternatively, call the Helpzone team on 08000 380 123 or email enquiries@southdevonhighschool.ac.uk