Students at a Swinton secondary school embraced their friends and posed for celebratory photos after collecting their “outstanding” GCSE results.
A queue formed as pupils posed for photographs in front of a sparkly silver backdrop next to a board emblazoned with “congratulations”, marking a positive end to five years of secondary education in Salford.
The results day comes as students across the city begin the next chapter of their education, with many moving on to sixth forms, colleges, apprenticeships and training.
Throughout the country, the proportion of GCSE entries awarded the highest grades has risen for the second consecutive year and remains above pre-pandemic levels.
Moorside High School described it as “another year of great GCSE results”, with students celebrating after securing places on their chosen post-16 pathways.
Principal Helen Ryles-Dean said the results were a reflection of the “dedication, perseverance and resilience” shown by pupils throughout their time at the school.
“It is a pleasure to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our Class of 2026,” she said.
“We are incredibly proud of every student, whether they have achieved the very highest grades or overcome personal challenges to secure the next steps they were aiming for.
“Their success reflects not only their own hard work, but also the unwavering support of their families and the commitment of our staff, who continually go above and beyond to provide guidance, encouragement and care. Today is a celebration of ambition, determination and achievement across our whole school community.”
Among the school’s highest achievers was Ken Tran, who achieved an outstanding set of results, including seven Grade 9s and one Grade 8.
Ken secured Grade 9s in English Literature, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science and Spanish. He will now progress to Loreto College to study A Levels in Computer Science, Mathematics and Further Mathematics.
Huijun Ru also celebrated exceptional success, achieving four Grade 9s and four Grade 8s. Huijun earned Grade 9s in English Literature, Mathematics, Chemistry and Geography and will continue their studies at Sale Grammar School, pursuing A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Other standout students include Reuben Acton, who achieved five Grade 9s and three Grade 8s. Reuben will continue his studies at Urmston Grammar School, where he will study A Levels in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics.
Alex Hancock achieved strong results across both academic and vocational subjects, including a Grade 8 in Computer Science and a Distinction* in Creative iMedia. Alex will progress to Pendleton College to study A Levels in Computer Science, Mathematics and Graphics.
Lily Kenzitt also celebrated an excellent set of GCSE results, including a Grade 9 in Mathematics, two Grade 8s, three Grade 7s and two Grade 6s. Her achievements reflect the dedication, consistency and hard work she has demonstrated throughout her time at Moorside High School. Lily will now progress to Winstanley College to study A Levels in Accounting, Economics and Mathematics.
“As our students move on to sixth forms, colleges, apprenticeships and other exciting opportunities, we wish every one of them the very best for the future,” Ms Ryles-Dean said, adding: “We have every confidence that they will continue to achieve great things and make a positive contribution to their local communities.”
Michael McCarthy, CEO of Consilium Academies, congratulated the pupils and staff on their results.
“It has been an honour to play a part in shaping their journeys, and our dedicated staff have worked tirelessly to equip them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to pursue their ambitions,” he said.
