A Summer Term Academic Roundup

June 28th 2025

As the summer break approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what has been an incredibly full and successful term at King’s. From the outset, pupils have demonstrated exceptional dedication, rising to the demands of a term shaped heavily by external assessments and examinations. With the exam season beginning earlier than usual this year, nearly every week brought with it a new set of academic challenges - and our pupils met each one with focus and maturity.

It has been especially pleasing to witness how well pupils prepared for their external examinations. Their approach reflected not just academic ability, but also a genuine commitment to doing their best. I would like to wish all of them the very best for their results this summer.

One of the most encouraging and impressive highlights of the term has been the continued rise in effort grades. Last year’s results set a school record - this year, our pupils have done even better. These effort grades are a strong measure of how seriously pupils are applying themselves to their studies, and they speak volumes about the work ethic and motivation running throughout the school community. Pupils should feel incredibly proud of this achievement.

Beyond the classroom, the term has been equally rich and rewarding. The Summer Concert was a true highlight - a celebration of talent and community that brought together current and former pupils for an unforgettable evening of music. Another standout was the GCSE and A Level Art Exhibition, which showcased a stunning range of creative work. The quality and diversity of the artwork on display was genuinely exceptional, reflecting both technical skill and personal expression. Events like these are a reminder of what makes King’s so special: talent, collaboration, and a shared sense of pride.

Throughout the term, pupils have embraced a wide array of opportunities: from completing online qualifications to achieving success in Trinity Speech and Drama and Cambridge English qualifications. These achievements, in so many different areas, show the value of trying something new and stepping beyond familiar ground. It’s often in those moments that the greatest growth happens.

I am very much looking forward to the Governors’ Prizes, where we will celebrate the ongoing effort, perseverance and success demonstrated by so many pupils this term. Having just wrapped all the books for the Governors’ Prizes, I was reminded of just how much effort so many pupils have put into this academic year.

Finally, a special mention must go to our Upper Sixth Form, who have secured a wide range of impressive destinations - from top university places to degree apprenticeships and professional internships. They leave King’s with our very best wishes for continued success in the years ahead. After such a busy and productive term, I wish all pupils, families, and colleagues a relaxing and enjoyable summer break. It has been a term of great progress - and there is much to look forward to when we return.

Dan Cupit - Deputy Head, Academic

Read the Academic section in this year's Dolphin magazine