GCSE Results 2025

Proudly Celebrating King’s Pupils’ GCSE Success

I am delighted to share the outstanding news that our pupils have once again achieved excellent results in this year’s GCSE examinations. Amidst a national picture of a declining pass rate, this year’s cohort has bucked the trend with 93% of pupils achieving Grade 4 and above in their examinations, compared to the national statistic of 67.1%.

Almost a quarter of all grades were awarded at the very highest levels of 8 to 9, with 40% at Grades 7 to 9 (compared to 21.8% nationally) and 62% at Grades 6 to 9. Notably, more than half of our pupils achieved at least one grade 8 or 9 – an impressive reflection of their aspiration and commitment across the year group.

Behind every grade is a story of hard work, determination and ambition. It was wonderful to witness so many happy faces this morning as pupils celebrated alongside their families – a moment of pride and reward for months of focused effort. We are particularly proud that these successes span the full breadth of the curriculum. In the Arts, for example, nearly half of all Art results and well over a third in Drama were at the top grade of 9 – a testament to the creativity, discipline and intellectual ambition nurtured in these subjects.

These achievements are a result not only of our pupils’ dedication but also of the expertise and tireless support of our teaching staff. Their commitment to inspiring every pupil to realise their potential lies at the heart of what we do. What makes King’s distinctive is the way pupils combine academic excellence with the confidence, creativity and resilience they develop through the rich co-curricular programme. This year group has made an exceptional contribution both in and beyond the classroom, and the whole school community is immensely proud of them.

For me personally, as one of my first official duties as Principal, it has been a privilege to celebrate these results alongside our pupils this morning. We look forward to seeing them continue to thrive as they move into Sixth Form.

Simon Fisher, Principal

SENIOR SCHOOL

Individual Success STORIES

It Dozen’t Get Better Than This!

We are delighted to celebrate Azzurra’s outstanding results with the award of 12 grade 9s. Reflecting on her achievement, she admitted feeling “very relieved to have achieved what I really wanted to get” — a moment of joy that comes after years of hard work and dedication.

Azzurra joined King’s in Year 8 and has made the most of the opportunities available. She speaks with real enthusiasm about her studies. Music has also been central to her time here, especially singing in the Cathedral Choir. From early morning rehearsals to whole-school services, these experiences have been unforgettable.

The setting of the school has been another highlight. “Just walking through Rochester between lessons is something I really enjoy,” she says. “I know friends at other schools who never leave their buildings during the day, but here it’s so different.”

Community is at the heart of King’s and Azzurra appreciates the closeness that a smaller school brings. “You really do know everybody,” she reflects, “there’s not one person whose name I don’t know.”

Beyond the classroom, she has thrown herself into athletics, especially in the summer months, enjoying the chance to try her hand at everything from javelin to sprinting. She has also spent many hours in the art studios, finding inspiration and motivation while working alongside friends.

We are so proud of Azzurra and everything she has achieved. Her talent, curiosity and commitment embody the spirit of King’s, and we wish her every success as she continues her journey.

Six Grade 9s for Delighted Dorothy

On receiving her results, Dorothy said she felt “really good and relieved – and a bit sick” but her joy and pride were clear.

Dorothy will be continuing her studies in Fine Art, Philosophy and Ethics and English Literature and Language. While she has not yet decided on a future career, she is excited by the possibility of pursuing painting more seriously.

Her highlights at King’s reflect her wide-ranging talents and passions. School productions have been a real favourite, both on stage and behind the scenes. Dorothy has acted in Oh, What a Lovely War, Romeo and Juliet and Moon Landing, and she has also supported backstage with costuming, lighting and design.

The art department has been another special place for Dorothy. She often spent lunchtimes and free periods there, finding peace and inspiration while working on her coursework. “It’s so peaceful, and I’ve just really enjoyed it,” she says.

Sport has also played an important role. Dorothy discovered rowing at King’s in Year 9, a sport she had never tried before. She quickly fell in love with it, training under the guidance of staff and going on to row at club level.

Music has been yet another passion. As a chorister, Dorothy sang regularly in the Cathedral and later continued her love of music with singing lessons. She describes singing as something that has “kept my passion going.”

Reflecting on her time at King’s, Dorothy says she has enjoyed “the whole five years” – from English lessons to art, productions to rowing – and feels grateful for the many opportunities that have shaped her experience.

Stage Star Shines in Drama!

Congratulations to Abraham who was delighted to receive a grade 9 in Drama. Reflecting on his results, Abraham said: “I put in all the work that I could have, which helps me feel better about everything. My results open up a lot of options for A Levels, uni and the future.”

Abraham will be studying Psychology, Biology and Economics at Sixth Form and he sees this as an exciting chance to explore new subjects and broaden his opportunities.

Drama has been a central passion during his time at King’s. A drama scholar, he has thrown himself into school productions, describing them as “one of the most rewarding things I can do.” He particularly loved playing a leading role in Romeo and Juliet, performed in traverse staging with the audience on either side. “Theatre doesn’t always have to be just watching and going home,” he explains. “It’s an experience. You’re there, you’re part of it, and audience reaction can so heavily influence how the actors perform on stage.”

Abraham has also embraced a wide range of co-curricular opportunities, from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to representing the school in numerous sports, including cricket, hockey, tennis, athletics and more. A cricket tournament in Wells was a particular highlight, offering both competition and camaraderie.

Looking ahead, Abraham is excited about the independence of Sixth Form life, the chance to focus on subjects he enjoys most and the freedom of the Sixth Form Centre. He also looks forward to continuing his involvement in drama and sport while pursuing new challenges.

Celebrating Boarder Lana’s Success!

We are thrilled to celebrate Lana who achieved 10 GCSE’s grades 6-8 and the many ways she has contributed to life at King’s over the past five years. Having joined as a boarder at the age of 11, she has embraced every opportunity, both in and out of the classroom.

Reflecting on her results, Lana says she feels happy and proud: “I think I did pretty good. I’m happy.” With plans to go on to study business, psychology and possibly chemistry, she is excited for the next stage of her academic journey.

For Lana, friendships have been the heart of her time here. “The friendships I’ve made are family,” she explains. “Some left three or four years ago but I still talk to them and meet up with them. It’s just a family that you make here.” Boarding has played a big part in that experience, giving her the chance to connect with pupils of different ages and backgrounds. She describes the close-knit boarding community as one where you “spend every day together, sometimes 24/7, and those friendships are really special.”

Lana also values the school’s beautiful setting. “I like that it’s not compacted into one building,” she says. “You can walk around and it’s a good site.” Whether relaxing with friends after class, joining trips to London, Thorpe Park or the ice rink, or simply enjoying time together in boarding, she has taken full advantage of the variety of experiences on offer.

Sport has been another highlight. Lana has represented the school at first-team level in hockey, where victories were often celebrated with a well-deserved trip to McDonald’s. She also loved taking part in house competitions, particularly House Music. “I’m just happy because we won House Song — and that’s the one that matters. It’s such a fun, competitive time when everyone comes together and it’s a favourite every year.”

Above all, Lana is grateful for the support of her teachers, both academically and personally. “Some teachers teach me in class and I see them in boarding too, so I have this constant support if I ever need to chat. They’re always there to help, and not many schools have that.”

We congratulate Lana on her results and thank her for the energy, commitment and positivity she has brought to King’s. We know she will carry these qualities into her next chapter and beyond.

Rower Ruby Celebrates!

We are delighted to celebrate Ruby’s success as she looks forward to beginning her A Levels at King’s. Having been part of the school community since nursery, Ruby has grown up at King’s and has embraced every opportunity that has come her way.

Reflecting on her results, Ruby says she feels “very happy” and is excited about the next stage of her journey. She will be studying English, Religious Studies and Economics, with hopes of exploring marketing or events management in the future.

Ruby’s highlights at King’s have been many, but she speaks with particular enthusiasm about the school productions. From Prep School performances of The Lion King and Hog Roof Inn, through to Moon Landing, Romeo and Juliet and Oh, What a Lovely War, drama has been central to her school life. She has taken to the stage in almost all of them, except Fiddler on the Roof where she played a vital role as assistant stage manager.

Rowing has also been a passion. Training twice a week — and often on Saturdays with the Academy — Ruby has loved being part of the team and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with the sport.

What stands out most for Ruby, though, is the strength of the community. Looking ahead, Ruby is excited for the independence of Sixth Form life. She is looking forward to trying new subjects, making the most of the Sixth Form Centre and embracing the next chapter of her education.

We congratulate Ruby on her achievements and look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the Sixth Form and beyond.

Outstanding Achievement for Oscar C!

Congratulations to Oscar on an excellent set of results, among them 4 grade 9s and 3 grade 7s. Having been at King’s since 2013, Oscar is looking forward to taking Politics, English Literature and History at A Level. He is also beginning to think ahead to university and beyond. “My career ideas change on a weekly basis,” he admits with a grin, “but I’ve been thinking about law, and I think King’s will give me the opportunity to do that.”

Oscar’s time at King’s has been shaped by his involvement in the Combined Cadet Force, where he has risen to the rank of corporal in the Army section. “It’s a great learning experience, especially the trips, the expeditions and the training. It’s just great for young people,” he reflects.

Beyond CCF, Oscar contributes to the wider community through serving at the Cathedral. “It’s really nice to be able to help out with the church services and get involved locally.”

As he looks ahead to Sixth Form, Oscar is excited about both his academic studies and the freedoms that come with senior life at King’s and admits he is “ looking forward to being able to go down to the High Street at lunchtime!”

Daya Dazzles with 5 Grade 9s!

Starting at King’s in nursery Daya is proud to call herself a true member of the King’s family and is looking forward to joining the Sixth Form.

Reflecting on her results, Daya is proud of her hard work and success. She will be going on to study German, Maths and English at A Level, with hopes of pursuing a career in law in the future.

For Daya, the highlights of her time at King’s have been the friendships and the community spirit. “I love the family feel,” she says. “Everyone knows everybody and everyone’s there to support each other. It makes you feel really safe and well looked after.”

She has also taken full advantage of the many opportunities beyond the classroom. A dedicated Royal Navy cadet in the CCF, she is excited to continue that commitment into Sixth Form. Sport has also been a huge part of her school life, from netball, cricket and hockey to the newly introduced girls’ football, which she is looking forward to playing more regularly. Looking ahead, she is also eager to join a school play and experience the thrill of performing on stage.

What excites her most about Sixth Form is the chance to study her chosen subjects in greater depth and to enjoy more freedom. “Being able to focus on the subjects that I really love, and being able to come into school every day and look forward to learning, I think it will be really good.”

Octavian Overjoyed with Outstanding Results

Congratulations to Octavian who achieved 4 grade 9s, 5 grade 8s and a grade 7. Having joined King’s in Lower Fifth, he has quickly become part of the school community and is now looking forward to the challenges of Sixth Form.

Octavian will be studying Maths, Further Maths and Computer Science at A Level, with ambitions to go on to Imperial College London to study Computer Science and eventually pursue a career as a software engineer.

When asked what he has enjoyed most about King’s, Octavian immediately spoke of the strong sense of community. “Everyone’s here for each other. Even if an exam doesn’t go very well, there’s always support when you need it.”

His personal highlight has been French. “It was always a time where we could learn, but also have fun. I enjoyed that class very much.”

Beyond the classroom, Octavian has immersed himself in the Combined Cadet Force, choosing the Royal Air Force section. Through this he has experienced flight simulators, taught others about aeroplanes and their history, and even taken part in a national competition in the north of England. “We didn’t come last! It was our first time going to such an event, so it was all about the experience.”

Looking ahead, Octavian is most excited about focusing on the subjects he truly enjoys and excels in and is looking forward to King’s Sixth Form immensely.

Rower Reuben’s Art Accommplishment!

Reuben was delighted to receive a 9 in Art. He has been at King’s since nursery and will continue into Sixth Form, where he will study Physics, Art and Design Technology, with aspirations to pursue architecture and industrial design at university.

Reflecting on his time at King’s, Reuben highlights the strong sense of community and the enjoyable, supportive atmosphere. “It’s quite a wholesome community and it’s very nice to be around.” He also values the friendships he has made and the fun of co-curricular activities, particularly rowing.

Reuben is a talented music scholar, playing first trumpet in the orchestra and also enjoying guitar. He has taken part in numerous performances, concerts and school trips, including international experiences in Italy with music, classics, and drama.

Looking ahead, Reuben is excited to join Sixth Form and experience the more formal, professional environment. “Wearing a suit, feeling professional—that’s going to be really fun for me.”

Jackpot for Jack

Congratulations to Jack on his excellent results, including a grade 9, 2 grade 8s and 3 grade 7s. Jack has been at King’s since Year 4 and is preparing to study English, History and Politics in Sixth Form, with ambitions to pursue a career in law at university.

Reflecting on his time at King’s, Jack highlights the friendships he has made and maintained over the years. “Making new friends and keeping my friends from the beginning has been amazing,” he says. He values the broad opportunities King’s provides, from academics to sports and co-curricular activities. “There’s always something you can do; you can really get involved in everything.”

Jack’s co-curricular engagement includes rugby and cricket, as well as participation in the Army section of the CCF, where he enjoys drill, fieldcraft, and mentoring younger cadets. Looking ahead, Jack is excited to focus on the subjects he enjoys most and to make the most of the Sixth Form Centre, a space designed for independent study and collaboration.

A Vocation in Intelligence for Violet

Congratulations to Violet on a fantastic set of results including a grade 9 in English Language. Having joined King’s just two and a half years ago in Fifth Form, Violet is preparing to study English, Psychology, Computing and Art in Sixth Form, with the option to refine her choices as she discovers what she enjoys most. Looking further ahead, she hopes to pursue a career in the intelligence services or the military.

Violet has valued the friendships she has made at King’s and the inclusive, supportive atmosphere of the school. “I’ve made lots of really good friends here, and the fact that everyone mixes across year groups is brilliant,” she reflects.

Some of her standout experiences include CCF camps and the Moon Landing school production, where she enjoyed being part of the cast. Beyond these, she has also participated in rowing competitions, embracing the rich co-curricular life King’s offers. “The camps are really good fun, and there’s so much to get involved in,” she says.

Looking ahead to Sixth Form: “I’m looking forward to just being able to focus on the things I want to do and make progress further.”

An Ecstatic Oscar H!

Oscar H has been at King’s since Year 6 and describes his reaction to his results, including 5 grade 7s as “utter disbelief… I’m so proud of myself.” For Sixth Form, he plans to study the Sports Diploma and Geography, though he may make adjustments as he settles in. Looking beyond Sixth Form, Oscar views it as a stepping stone and is excited about future opportunities.

Reflecting on his time at King’s, Oscar highlights the many trips he has experienced, including the Africa trip and the Sri Lanka cricket tour, which he describes as “memories forever.” He has been actively involved in sport and CCF, serving as an NCO in the Navy section. “It’s really fun, and rugby is my favourite. Being part of a team and the camaraderie is amazing,” he says. His Navy training involves weekly squad activities, team tasks, sailing lessons and character-building exercises. In rugby, Oscar plays in the first team and trains 4–5 hours a week in preparation for Saturday matches.

Looking ahead to Sixth Form, Oscar is excited about returning to see friends, engage with teachers and enjoy the facilities of the Sixth Form Centre, while building confidence in both academics and co-curricular pursuits.

Isabella’s Stella Performance!

Congratulations to Isabella on her wonderful results and her exciting plans for Sixth Form. Isabella was delighted to achieve 6 grade 9s, a grade 8 and 3 grade 7s. Isabella is preparing to study Physics in Sixth Form, with aspirations to become a nuclear physicist, focusing on fusion, fission, and other advanced research areas.

Isabella has cherished the friendships and supportive community at King’s. “I’ve made so many friends, and the teachers are amazing,” she reflects. Highlights of her time include lunch breaks spent chatting with friends, participating in school plays, and helping backstage in productions such as Moon Landing and Fiddler on the Roof. She has also taken part in Romeo and Juliet and other school performances, both onstage and behind the scenes.

Her co-curricular involvement is wide-ranging: sports including netball, cricket, football, and hockey, as well as trips such as canoeing adventures, which provided unforgettable memories. “Even if I wasn’t very good at football, it was great for making friends and getting involved.”

Looking ahead, Isabella is excited to deepen her studies in Physics and to continue embracing the rich opportunities King’s has to offer.

Own Goal for National Netball Player!

Huge congratulations to Tixie P on achieving ten GCSEs, including an outstanding 9 in French! Earlier this year, Tixie earned a prestigious Velvet Cap after being selected to play netball for the France National Junior Squad.

Tixie went on to represent France at the European Netball U19 tournament, where she was awarded the Players’ Player for her strength, resilience, versatility, and unstoppable “never give up” attitude—qualities that truly shone through in her exceptional GCSE results.

SENIOR SCHOOL