SINCE 2020, the Government hasn’t published direct comparisons of school exam results because of the disruption caused by the pandemic, with all schools having had to close and conduct remote learning.

Levels of absence during this time have been higher than normal for all schools and getting back to normal will take some time yet, particularly in secondary schools.

Last year was the first full year of education, after two disrupted years, and pupils were able to sit their GCSE exams at the end of Year 11 in May and June 2022.

During this time, parents have had to make important secondary school choices for their children based on exam results from 2019 and, in many cases, by visiting schools virtually.

The effects of this disruption to information for secondary school choice will continue into next year; whilst the Government has decided to publish this year’s GCSE results, they haven’t reinstated the league tables, even though parents can search for schools and compare results themselves.

Comparing school results is just one factor for school choice, but it’s very important for many parents.

Chulmleigh College Executive Headteacher Michael Johnson said: “We are very proud of our results this year.

“Staff at the College have worked exceptionally hard during the last five years to provide our pupils with the best possible education and GCSE results, despite the issues created by the pandemic.

“To be top in the county for non-selective schools, particularly during this difficult time, is a nice endorsement for all the hard work by pupils and staff.

“We know that great GCSE results present young people with the best possible opportunities when they leave us, and this is what we strive towards.

“There should be a consistent measure to compare all school options, including private schools – who don’t have their results published at all.

“We look forward to the time when families are once again presented with all the information they need to make this incredibly important choice for their child’s future.”

Chulmleigh College’s KS4 headline figures are Progress 8 - 0.83 (Devon 0.13; England -0.03); Ebacc Entry – 82 per cent (Devon 34 per cent; England 39 per cent); Attainment 8 - 57.6 (Devon 48.1; England 48.7); Basics 5 - 65 per cent (Devon 49 per cent; England 50 per cent).

This information is all available on the DfE School Performance website: https://www.gov.uk/school-performance-tables , however this year there is no league table option.