GCSE and A-Level Results Day 2025

Ballet dancers leap with joy at GCSE and A-Level results!

Today we celebrate another triumphant year with outstanding GCSE and A-Level results.

In 2025, students transitioning from our Lower School to Upper School demonstrated remarkable academic prowess in their GCSE exams. An impressive 91% of students achieved overall Grades 4 and above, equivalent to A* to C in the former grading system.43% of students achieved overall Grades 7 or higher, with an average Grade of 8 in both GCSE Dance and Religious Studies. 

In addition to their daily dance training, most Year 10 and 11 students undertake five full GCSE courses in core subjects: English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, and Science (double). Additionally, they select three further subjects from options including French, Art, Drama, Music, Geography, History, Dance, and Religious Studies. 

The GCSE success follows the news that our sixth form students achieved a 100% pass rate (A* to E) in their A-Levels. Notably, 100% of students passed Geography and Maths at A* to C, with 77% attaining overall A* to C grades. These A-Level studies are completed before students transition into their final year with Elmhurst Ballet Company, bridging the gap between school and professional life. 

Our A-Level students benefit from the expertise of passionate subject specialists. They can choose from a variety of subjects including Art, Geography, English Literature, and Mathematics. In Year 13, students have the opportunity to take an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), allowing them to undertake a one-year research project in a subject of their choice. This qualification is highly regarded by universities and can support students in pursuing academic study alongside their dance careers and beyond. Elmhurst recognises the value of A-Levels in complementing and enriching the school’s vocational training. In the case of a career being cut short by injury or a change in aspirations, A-Levels provide a reliable safety net and, if desired, a pathway to undergraduate and postgraduate study. 

Jessica Ward, Principal of Elmhurst Ballet School, expressed her delight at the recent exam results achieved by GCSE and A Level students. She remarked, "We are thrilled to see our students perform so well in their exams. These outstanding results are a testament to the incredible hard work and dedication of our students. Despite their demanding dance training schedule, their academic achievements are on par with students nationwide. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and extend our heartfelt congratulations to all students receiving their results this summer. 

Elmhurst is academically non-selective, admitting students solely based on their potential to become professional ballet dancers. Year after year, we witness continued academic success, which is attributed to the unwavering dedication and effort of both our students and their teachers. These results will provide our students with the best possible opportunities as they move beyond their GCSEs and A-Levels, whether they choose to continue with us at Elmhurst or pursue other paths. We look forward to supporting them in their future endeavours." 

Elmhurst offers academic tuition through an experienced faculty of well-qualified, specialist teachers, which is as crucial as the school's vocational dance programme. Form tutors monitor the progress and welfare of each student, while pastoral care is supported by a comprehensive network of academic, boarding, and vocational staff. Internal academic assessments are conducted throughout the year, with parents receiving regular written reports and attending annual parent-teacher evenings for each year group.