GCSE results improve

The latest secondary school league tables show GCSE results have improved in schools across Rochdale.

The number of pupils across the borough at the end of Key Stage 4 gaining 5 or more GCSE’s at grade A*-C including English and Maths has increased by 1.5%, which is above the 0.8% national average increase.

For nine out of the 16 secondary schools across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale the results are an increase on last year, and overall the progress is much better than the average increase in the rest of the UK.

"Eight schools have exceeded their statutory targets, and we have exceeded our local authority target in terms of the number of pupils achieving five or more A*-C grades including English and Maths," said a Council spokesperson.

"The numbers of pupils achieving five or more GCSE or equivalent qualifications at grades A*-C have increased by 3.4%, which is higher than the national average. It is particularly pleasing to see 12 schools have exceeded their targets in this area, as an authority we have increased our target by 4.3%."

In terms of individual pupil progress, this has increased year on year overall, and the progress made is higher than the national average.

Terry Piggott, Executive Director for education on Rochdale Council said: "Obviously we are very pleased with the league table and with the value added scores. Last year saw huge efforts by students, supported by teachers and head teachers to improve on 2007. These are very pleasing results, especially as the percentage includes very positive achievement in the core subjects of English and Mathematics as well as other subjects across the curriculum. It reflects the hard work and commitment of the staff and students concerned.

"The figures show pupils and schools are overall, performing in line with expectations.

"Education continues to be a priority in the borough and the results show we are clearly heading in the right direction. Schools are to be congratulated for their hard work and skill in achieving this.”

Sue Brown, the Council's Head of Schools, said: "I am pleased with these results, which clearly show a positive trend. They are a great tribute to everyone. Students, staff, parents and governors have all worked hard together to make sure we provide high-quality teaching for every student in every lesson. This is the real key to our success.”

Councillor Irene Davidson, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said: "I would like to congratulate our students, teachers and parents on these marvellous results across the borough. As the results get better, improving them gets ever harder, so everyone should be especially proud. This league table represents an improving trend with significant successes in certain schools."