Record-breaking exam results on GCSE Day 2026

Our Year 11 students celebrated a record-breaking set of exam results on GCSE results day 2026.

Over two-thirds (68.4%) of grades* were 9 – 7 (equivalent to A* – C), a figure well above the national average (23.1%) and some 20% higher than the independent school average (48.4%).

The overall pass rate was also extremely strong, with 97.3 % graded at 4 or above.

Head Robert Lobatto highlighted how the school’s progressive approach shaped student success, saying:

“We are delighted with today’s GCSE results. They demonstrate The King Alfred School’s core principles: that young people can achieve outstanding academic outcomes whilst genuinely enjoying their education and developing as a whole person. We are incredibly proud of what our students have achieved alongside the brilliant young people they have become.”

Lili P was one of the students to achieve all grades 9, 8 and 7. She is staying at KAS for Sixth Form, studying A levels in Biology, Psychology and Three Dimensional Design. She said:

“I was terrified walking in, but seeing my results made me so happy! I got the grades that I needed, including a 9 in Science. 

“I love the feel of community here at KAS. The classes are smaller here [compared to other schools], so you get a lot more one-to-one support, which I think will help me get the best A level results possible.”

Having achieved a host of 8s and 9s, fellow student Juri had his eyes set firmly on the future. He said:

“I’m staying at KAS to take four A levels [in Maths, Further Maths, English Literature and Theatre Studies], which I think will open a lot of doors in the future. My ambition is to study English at Oxford or Cambridge.

“I love this school. Everyone is so warm and nice, and I really like all my teachers – they’re very motivating. They don’t just drive you to achieve for the grades, they drive you to achieve for yourself.”

A beaming Sam Kirkwood, Head of Year 11, said:

“I’m incredibly proud of this brilliant group of young people. At the beginning of Year 10, we spoke as a group about the two years ahead and the need to ‘lock in’ – and they did just that. They have worked so hard and can now enjoy the fruits of their labour!”

September will see students progress to further study, ready to use the skills and personal qualities developed at KAS – including creative thinking, independence and a sure sense of self – as they continue to thrive.

Many will be attending the school’s Sixth Form, where last week students celebrated stellar A level results, including over three-quarters of grades at A* – B.

Looking forward, incoming Head Stephen Campbell said:

“These results are a remarkable achievement for our students and staff. They provide a strong foundation as we continue to champion an academically ambitious and progressive education at KAS.”

A huge well done to all students on their achievements – and thanks to staff, families and the wider KAS community for their ongoing support in nurturing this cohort of bright, determined and impressive young people.

* including GCSEs, School Directed Courses and Level 2 qualifications