GCSE Attainment continues to rise for students in Bolton

We are celebrating local students’ success as GCSE results in the borough rise for the third year in a row.

This year’s results are particularly significant for the ‘Class of 2025,’ whose early education was heavily disrupted by the pandemic. These students missed the chance to sit their Key Stage 2 SATs due to lockdown restrictions, yet they have shown remarkable resilience and determination throughout their journey.

Dominic McKeon, Chair of the Bolton Learning Partnership said:
‘We are incredibly proud of the achievements of all our students. Despite the challenges this generation has faced they have demonstrated a level of resilience and determination that is unparalleled.  Their ability to strive for success in a very complex post pandemic world will stand them all in good stead for the future.  Whether that be college, university, employment or training, we hope the time students have spent within schools in Bolton has not just given them academic success but has also taught them the values and beliefs that will allow them to take their place in the world.’

GCSE attainment in Bolton, measured by the average grades across a student’s best eight subjects, has continued to rise this year, extending a strong upward trajectory over the last three years. While formal progress measures are unavailable for this year’s cohort due to the cancelled SATs in 2020, attainment and progress are closely linked. Rising attainment across Bolton strongly indicates that progress is continuing to improve, as it has in recent years.

Dominic McKeon, continued, ‘Progress in Bolton has been improving year on year and was above the national average in 2024. The fact that attainment has risen again this year is a testament to the hard work of our students and the dedication of teachers and leaders across the town. As leaders and teachers, we are committed to working together to provide the highest standards of education. We will continue to challenge ourselves, share best practice, and collaborate so that every child in Bolton can benefit.’

While exam grades are often the focus of results day, they do not solely define a child. The qualities of determination, perseverance, and ambition – demonstrated so clearly by this year’s students – are what will ultimately drive future success.

GCSE results day is, above all, a moment of celebration. The Bolton Learning Partnership congratulates every student on their achievements and wishes them the very best for the future.