A Level celebrations at Malvern St James

Year 13 pupils at Malvern St James School in Malvern, Worcestershire, are celebrating a fantastic set of results today as the A Level and BTEC awards land and University places are confirmed.

Headline news is that A Level A* grades are up on 2024 and three quarters of all grades are at A*-B.  In addition, 50% of Level 3 BTEC sport grades are Distinction* and Distinction (equivalent to A* and A at A level).

Crucially, 98% of pupils obtained their place at their chosen university, gaining places at the most competitive institutions: Imperial College London, UCL, Durham, Bath and Warwick, to name but a few.  We also have a number of pupils going to international universities in Canada, Australia and Hong Kong, while one secured a place at the world-famous Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Malvern St James’ broad, post-16 curriculum offer ensures academic rigour and creative practice in each and every subject; this is reflected by our 2025 pupils taking up places on a diverse range of courses such as Biochemistry, Philosophy, Economics, Computer Science, Architecture, Marine Biology, Pharmacy, History, Product and Furniture Design, Physics, Medical Neuroscience and Acting.

These successes should be seen in the context that Malvern St James is not highly selective on entry: whatever a pupil’s starting point, the school helps them to achieve the best grades and entrance to the most prestigious universities and institutions.  The School’s 2025 ISI inspection report noted that “across the school, teaching is consistently effective” and that lessons are “characterised by mutual respect and cooperation”.  Results across the curriculum evidence this consistency and excellence: 100% Computer Science grades, 60% English Literature grades and 56% Chemistry grades were A* and A.  A pastoral approach, focused on the development of the whole person alongside a wide-ranging enrichment and co-curricular programme, builds on intellectual challenge in the classroom

Dr Gareth Lloyd, Head of Malvern St James, said:

“This summer has truly showcased the determination and focus of our students, underpinned by our ethos of ‘work hard, play hard, and look after each other.’  That mindset has clearly paid off for every individual.  A Level results day is a pivotal moment — it’s not just about securing university places, though that is of course hugely important.  It is also about acknowledging the wider impact our students have made — the commitment they have shown to the MSJ community and the strength of the relationships they have built here.  They have thrived in an environment where every teacher knows their students as individuals, enabling a truly holistic education.  On behalf of the entire MSJ community, congratulations to all our Leavers, and to students across the country celebrating their A Level results today.”