Record breaking A-level results for Exeter Maths School pupils

Pupils at the pioneering Exeter Maths School have secured record-breaking A-level results.

Staff and students are celebrating the specialist sixth form’s highest set of exam grades since it opened in 2014.

The average grade achieved by sixth formers this year was A*, with 91 per cent of grades A*, A or B. A total of 81 per cent of grades were A* or A.

Students in receipt of Free School Meals outperformed their peers with an average grade of 52.1/A+ (compared to 51.7 for all students). A total of 15 students achieved A* in every subject they sat.

The Exeter Mathematics School is the only specialist maths school in the South West and is sponsored by Exeter College and the University of Exeter. It provides education for students who have a particular interest in mathematics, physics and computing.

The unique school is home to 127 pupils from across Devon, Somerset, Dorset and Cornwall and now Bristol, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. Those who live too far away to commute live in the school’s residential provision on weekdays.

All students take A Levels in maths, further maths and either physics, computer Science or both. They also complete the Exeter Maths Certificate, which provides challenging and enriching experience of research, university-style study and industry experience.

Exeter Maths School Headteacher Kerry Burnham said: “I would like to congratulate our students on their spectacular achievements. They have worked so hard and it was a pleasure for us to teach them. We wish them all the best for the next chapter in their lives, but they will always be part of the Exeter Maths School family.

“We would like to thank the Worshipful Company of Actuaries for providing the funding to ensure those who would otherwise be disadvantaged receive the support they need to fully participate in school life and thrive.”

Xanthe Budden, from Bristol, is going to Durham University to study maths. She said: “The school gave me the confidence to recognise my abilities, and I received a lot of additional support in maximising my grades.  I really appreciated the support from EMS staff, particularly Fiona who is a phenomenal teacher who goes above and beyond to boost the confidence of students.  

“I loved my time boarding at Exeter Maths School and am really grateful to the boarding tutors for their care and will especially miss my conversations with Devon whose support and kindness meant so much to me.  If I could give any advice to next year’s Year 13 students, it would be to make the most of your time and opportunities available at EMS but ensure you balance this with doing things you enjoy and finding time to relax.”

Sian Canning-Matthews, from North Devon, will be going to the University of Bristol to study maths and philosophy. She said: “EMS teaches content beyond the A-level curriculum which is great preparation for university.  The pastoral support is amazing and there is always someone around to talk to.  

“I am really grateful to Sam in the pastoral team and Devon in boarding who both went above and beyond to support me throughout my time at EMS.  As someone who struggles around people, I found the small community at EMS the ideal setting for me to complete my A levels and the link with Exeter College meant I could keep up with other friendships and take advantage of the extracurricular activities at the College”.   

Isaac Olsson, who is going to University of Bristol to study maths and philosophy. Due to ill health, he studied for his A-levels over 3 years. 

Isaac said: “Initially I was unsure about taking an extra year but am really glad I did and am very grateful to the school and especially Yasmin for encouraging me to do so.  As well as giving me the space to maximise my results, the extra time allowed me to find a balance between my studies and continue with my scouting and other outside interests which I believe was crucial for me achieving the results I did. 

“From an academic perspective the Exeter Maths Certificate is the best thing about EMS and is fantastic for preparing students for University. I am considering a future in academia so this has provided me an excellent foundation. Ed has the ability to make fantastic teaching look effortless and Clare is incredible!  I would encourage any students who have been advised to take an extra year to seriously consider it and not be embarrassed about it.  The support from the pastoral and teaching staff help make this a very easy transition.”