Sunderland school’s 2024 results are once again higher than the national average – join them at their open day

Applications for secondary school places must be made by the end of October, and pupils and parents across Sunderland will be weighing up their options.

There is one Sunderland school which has once more proved it’s a cut above after exceptional exam results this year.

St Aidan’s Catholic Academy is proud to announce that its students have once again significantly outperformed national averages, achieving exceptional results across the board. This year, 25% of all GCSE grades awarded were 9-7 (A*-A), and 40% were 9-6 (A*-B), demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence and surpassing both national and local averages.

The achievements of its students are not only evident in these impressive statistics but also in the individual successes of its pupils. Ethan Holden excelled with five grade 9s, sharing his excitement about continuing his studies at St Aidan’s and St Anthony’s Sixth Form College. “I was nervous waiting for my results; however, I am relieved with how well I have done. I wouldn’t have achieved the same results at another school,” Ethan said he plans to pursue physics, maths, further maths, and chemistry, aiming for a future in aerospace engineering or astrophysics.

Similarly, Kendrix Mayamaya’s dedication paid off, achieving six grade 9s and four grade 8s after studying diligently for three or more hours a day. “I was surprised with my results, particularly the grade 9s in Maths, History, and Geography,” he said. “Teachers have been incredibly helpful with revision.” Kendrix will be studying maths, physics, and computer science at sixth form.

Shared sixth form

St Aidan’s commitment to excellence extends beyond GCSEs. At the shared sixth form with St Anthony’s Catholic Girls’ School, students have also excelled. Among the top achievers is Callum Kendray, who achieved four A* grades in biology, chemistry, maths, and Spanish and is set to pursue medicine at Oxford University. Reflecting on his success, Callum shared, “I was hoping for As, but this is so much more. I’ve been dreaming about this for years.”

Emma Coates is another shining example of student success, celebrating three A* grades and an A. She is thrilled to be going to Oxford University to study Theology and Religion. “I’m so excited,” she shared. “My teachers really inspired me.”

Dedication and hard work

At St Aidan’s Catholic Academy, the belief is that excellence is achieved through dedication, hard work, and a commitment to core values. The students and staff embody this belief every day, striving to reach the pinnacle of academic and personal success. The outstanding results students achieve are not by chance; they are the result of a community that lives and breathes a culture of excellence, supporting each other in climbing to the top of their own mountains.

More than just exams

The academy offers more than just an education focused on academic achievement. As a Catholic school it sets the highest expectations for every individual, nurturing a strong sense of moral purpose, personal responsibility, integrity, honesty, and respect for others. These core values are the foundation of all aspects of school life at St Aidan’s, ensuring that pupils are not only prepared for exams but are also ready to thrive in the 21st-century world.

At St Aidan’s, every boy who steps through the doors, regardless of his background or ability, has the potential to excel. The commitment to inclusivity and personal development is reflected in the results: students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those in receipt of the Pupil Premium grant consistently achieve their full potential. This is a powerful testament to the nurturing environment provided, where every student is supported to succeed and every opportunity is accessible.

In addition to the outstanding achievements, St Aidan’s is also excited to announce the launch of the School Rebuilding Programme this year. This ambitious project will transform the learning environment and enhance the ability to deliver a high-quality education for many years to come. The new facilities will have a profound impact on the lives of young people and the local community, benefiting generations to come and ensuring that the academy continues to provide a world-class education in state-of-the-art buildings.

New headteacher

St Aidan’s is also thrilled to announce the appointment of new headteacher, Anne-Marie Whitten. With many years of experience at St Aidan’s, a passion for education, and a commitment to excellence Mrs Whitten is dedicated to building further on the current success in years to come. The St Aidan’s community looks forward to the positive impact she will make as they embark on this exciting new chapter together.

St Aidan’s Catholic Academy is committed to providing a holistic education that prepares boys for life beyond the classroom. With its strong academic results, commitment to core values, and exciting future developments, St Aidan’s invites you to consider the academy for your son’s education. Here, he will be challenged, supported, and inspired to achieve his very best and become a well-rounded individual ready to succeed in whatever path he chooses.

Join St Aidan’s for its annual Year 5 and 6 Open Night on 17th September at 6pm, where your son’s bright future begins.

For further information visit the school website here