Manchester schools respond to Government's ‘National Challenge’

Provisional GCSE results just in show continued improvements in achievement at schools across the city.

Eight of the city's schools that were previously below the Government's key threshold of 30% good GCSEs including English and Maths, have moved above it this year.

There has been a 6.7% rise in the city in the number of pupils achieving five or more good GCSE passes, including English and Maths, with 39% of pupils achieving this key benchmark. And with 60% of pupils achieving 5 or more good passes, compared to 51.8% last year, more young people are achieving good results at the city's schools that will stand them in good stead for the future.

Pauline Newman, Manchester City Council's Director of Children's Services, said: "These are good results, reflecting the efforts of young people, parents, carers and schools. I would like to congratulate all those involved, and pay tribute to the inspirational and dedicated school staff across the city who have worked with our young people throughout 13 years of their education.

"We will continue to work closely with all schools in Manchester, to support them in further improving outcomes for young people. With the unprecedented programme of investment now underway in school buildings and a range of exciting developments ahead in the way pupils learn, I am sure we can look forward to further stories of success in the future."

Councillor Sheila Newman, Manchester City Council's Executive Member for Children and Young People, paid tribute to the young people, their families and communities: "These results show that Manchester's young people are working hard and are ambitious for their adult lives. I'd also like to acknowledge the efforts of parents, carers, teachers and all those who work with our young adults: their perseverance and belief in those they work with is an inspiration to us all.

"The range of study, training and employment opportunities in our city is second to none, and I would encourage every one of these young people to be confident in themselves and to make the most of what's available on their doorstep. Well done to you all.'

The biggest improvement in results in the city has been seen at St Peter's RC High where 47% of pupils achieved five or more good grades including English and Maths this year - up from 27% last year - placing them well above the government's 30% threshold.

Across the city pupils at Abraham Moss High School, Our Lady's RC Sports College, Plant Hill Arts College, Burnage High School, St Paul's RC High, Newall Green High and the Manchester Academy have also achieved success which has moved the schools above the government's threshold.

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