Harrogate Ladies' College (Duchy College) Pupils Celebrates Best Ever Top GCSE Grades
Harrogate Ladies’ College (Duchy College) celebrated a record percentage of top grade 9s and some of the country’s top marks as GCSE results were released this morning.
A record 22% of all grades at the school were 9s, while over a third of pupils achieved five or more 9-7 grades. Pupils studying STEM subjects continue to excel with 80% of all Physics grades at 9-7, while in Creative Arts (Art and Textiles), 81% of all grades were 9-7 and an incredible 22% of pupils achieved marks of 100%.
Pupils receiving their GCSE results at Harrogate Ladies’ College (Duchy College) achieved an average of one grade higher than their baseline prediction, a key indicator of success according to Principal, Joanna Fox.
“As a largely non-selective school, we are exceptionally proud of our pupils’ progress, which is down to the pupils’ hard work and the expertise and dedication of our incredible teachers,” Mrs Fox said.
“To achieve a record percentage of 9s and a value-added average of plus one is an outstanding result.
“These pupils will be part of history, becoming the first to achieve their A levels from Duchy College in two years’ time as we prepare for a new co-ed era. Through our individualised support, we look forward to nurturing each and every one of them in the next stage of their academic journey,” she said.
Returning for Sixth Form in September is India Thomas, who achieved a clean sweep of ten 9s in her GCSEs, including a perfect score of 100% in Textiles.
“I am so happy with my GCSE results, and achieving all 9s is a dream come true,” India said.
“I couldn’t be more thankful to my teachers, who have been so supportive, and I can’t wait to begin Sixth Form here in September.”
Another pupil who particularly shone in STEM subjects is Reewa Bennett, with four of her nine 9s coming in Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
“I have worked so hard up until this point, and I’m really proud of my results,” Reewa said.
“Today is a great opportunity to celebrate with my friends, before we begin Sixth Form in September.
“The community here is amazing, all our teachers genuinely care and will always go above and beyond to help,” she said.
Ilkley’s Esme Halliwell achieved eight 9s and two 8s in her GCSEs.
“Achieving these results in my GCSEs is a fantastic feeling,” Esme said.
“It feels like all the hard work has paid off, and I’m really excited about the opportunities Sixth Form will bring.”
About Harrogate Ladies’ College
Harrogate Ladies’ College was established in 1893 under the name of Harrogate College. Originally a boys’ school, it later became a girls’ senior school, pioneering girls education in the early 20th century. It opened a co-ed pre-school in 1997 followed by a co-ed prep school 25 years ago, both of which now go under the name of Highfield. The school has a long history of academic success, including being named in the Sunday Times Top 10 Schools in the North for Academic Excellence 2024.
In June 2025, the school announced plans to begin the gradual transition to a fully co-ed school from 2-18 years from September 2026. Alongside the move to a co-ed senior school, their family of schools will be known as Duchy College from September 2026.
