August 14, 2025
Results this year include:
Some notable individual success include Mark with A*A*B, Daniel with A*A*AB, Alexander, Samuel, Alistair and William with A*AB and Fraser with AAB. University offers have been received from Russell Group and other high tariff universities, including Durham, Bristol, Manchester, Exeter and Queen Mary’s.
A significant proportion have received their first choice university place, with many of the boys achieving high grades in demanding subjects.
Head, Rick Clarke, commenting on the results said:
“I am so proud of the efforts of the St James boys this year. Many of these boys faced significant obstacles on their journey to academic success, and the fact that so many of them have received good university offers is a testament to their hard work and resilience. Beyond the results on paper, I know that they are all wonderful ambassadors for the school, with a genuine desire to make a difference in the world, and we look forward to hearing of their future successes.”
The school is pleased to see an increase this year in grades A*-B, and we want to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of the St James staff who have worked tirelessly to help our boys achieve their success.
This success has been achieved in an environment that combines academic stretch with personalised support, ensuring each boy is challenged and encouraged to reach his potential. Our distinctive Quiet Time practice, alongside strong pastoral care, helps students develop focus, wellbeing and a genuine love of learning.
When reflecting on his time at St James, Daniel B, who achieved two A*s in Mathematics and Physics, an A in Chemistry, and a B in French, and will be studying Engineering at Durham University, had a special message for the Mathematics Department:
“I’d like to thank them as they have been really supportive and helped in the PAT preparations which I did really well in. I felt that was really useful. Especially Ms Mitchell, who did really well in pushing us through the more difficult topics earlier on in the year.”
Jay G-M, who is heading to the University of Bristol to study Politics, described his heartwarming experience at St James:
“My time at St James has felt like a little individual family, especially with the small class sizes. I really enjoyed my time with everyone both in and out of the classrooms. I’ll really miss that dynamic as we’re all off to do different things but we’ll all definitely still keep in touch!”
He went on to share how his A-levels shaped his future direction:
“I don’t think I would have seen myself studying Politics in University until I took the subject in A-levels. My teacher at the time, Mr Mawer, really helped me fall in love with the subject. That shows how much the right subject can completely change your life.”
Jay also offered advice for younger students:
“If you really want to try a subject that you’ve never done before, just try it. I didn’t think I’d like Politics but if you try something new, it could end up changing the way you think about things and that could be really useful.”
Alex B-W, who will also be studying in Bristol and undertaking an integrated Masters in Chemistry, was delighted to achieve an A* in Physics. He reflected on the challenges he faced:
“One of the main challenges I found (when it came to preparations for exams and university) was the mental barrier which became a physical thing that you had to push yourself through. However, Mr Lempriere was great help with advice and guidance on how the process works and when you get to university. Even the small things like getting our GP sorted out which you initially wouldn’t think about.”
He added:
“Even hearing about the university experiences of other staff members helped a lot as they not only offered academic advice but also life advice.”
When asked what he would remember most about St James, Alex said:
“I’ll miss the grounds. Bristol is nice but this is more like home but to be honest, I’ll really miss the staff. I think I’ve met some really special people who are very interesting. I wish I had more time to get to know them better.”
We congratulate all our students on their hard work and achievements, and we look forward to following their progress as they embark on the next stage of their journeys.
