Prospectus
Results Days 2009
Downs School Students Top the League!
Congratulations to All!
The Downs School, Compton topped examination performance across West Berkshire’s schools at both A level and GCSE level. There was much to celebrate on Thursday 20th August and 27th August when students recieved their A Level and GCSE results respectively. Students, parents and teachers were all celebrating that the hard work and committtment of earlier in the year resulted in such spectacular results.
For most it meant that those coveted places at their chosen University or places in the Downs School Sixth Form were secure.
Headteacher Val Houldey commented,
I am over the moon. It amazes me how the students improve year on year. The progress from GCSE to A level continues to be outstanding for students of all abilities. Staff and students worked extra hard to make up for the snow closures we had and also used the school website to ensure that teaching could continue during the closure period. One of the most satisfying parts of a teacher’s job is to see young people thrilled with what they have done and on their way to fulfilling their ambitions. 
There were many students with an excellent individual performance, gaining A grades in all subjects.
At Key Stage 5
above 99% of entries passed;
87% gained A level grades at C and above:
over 72% of entries achieved A levels at grade A and B:
over 42% of A level grades were at A.
Btec Performing Arts and IT all at Distinction*, Distinction or Merit
GCSE Results
The results of the GCSE examinations were at the top of the achievement list for West Berkshire when they were revealed on the morning of 27th August 2009.
Headteacher Val Houldey said,
These figures represent individual students and their achievement. Now, more of our students than ever will have wider choices about what they do with their futures, helping them to get more out of life. This is what it is all about.
82% of students taking exams this year in year 11 (age 16) achieved at least 5 higher grades (A*-C).
18% of students achieved at least 8 A and A* grades!
The number of students gaining 5 GCSEs at A*-C including English and mathematics has again risen to 70%, improving on last year’s performance.
