Students at Hull’s innovative Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) have once again secured an impressive set of GCSE and Level 2 technical results, with grades significantly out-performing national averages.
The outstanding performance reinforces the winning formula of the Ofsted “Outstanding”-rated school, which combines a business-focused curriculum, innovative teaching, dedicated students and supportive families.
The employer-led school achieved a 100% pass rate across all qualifications, with highlights including:
- 71% of students achieved a grade 5 or above in both English and Maths, vastly exceeding last year’s national average of 45%.
- 83% of students secured a grade 4 or above in English and Maths, compared to last year’s national average of 65%.
- 78% of students earned grades 5 to 9 across triple science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics).
- 36% of all grades in technical specialisms – Creative iMedia, Digital Technology and Engineering – were awarded Distinction or Distinction*.
The school also achieved remarkable results in closing the disadvantage gap, with students receiving free school meals defying national under-performance trends. At Ron Dearing UTC, 58% of these students achieved a grade 5 or above in English and Maths, compared to last year’s national average of just 18.6%.
Ron-Dearing UTC GCSE students(Image: Ron-Dearing UTC )
Principal Sarah Pashley said: “We couldn’t be prouder of our Year 11 students who have put in months of hard work and commitment to achieve a fantastic set of results. With the cohort’s attendance holding firm at an incredible 97%, the dedication of our students speaks for itself.
“Their success wouldn’t be possible though without the added commitment of their parents and carers, our university and employer partners, and our dedicated teachers and support staff, who turn up day in, day out with support and encouragement to help our young people reach their full potential.”
Over 80 per cent of the cohort are staying on to study for A-level and technical qualifications in the Sixth Form, where they will be joined by a substantial number of external students moving to Ron Dearing UTC in September from other schools.
They will benefit from Ron Dearing UTC’s new state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre which is set to open in January. Several of the current Year 11 students will also be progressing on to study for the school’s first T Level qualification in Digital Software Development, which launches in September.
The success of the Year 11 students comes after last week’s exceptional A-level and Level 3 technical outcomes, making it a double celebration for the school. Unsurprisingly, demand for places is extremely high, with the school having received more than 500 applications for the 210 Year 10 places available this September, cementing Ron Dearing UTC’s reputation as one of the most sought-after educational providers in the region.
Richard Martin, chair of the governing board and non-executive director at Major Partner Arco, said: “Congratulations to every student, teacher, parent, staff member, employer partner and governor who made these exceptional results possible. This is a really exciting time for the education sector, with our new Prime Minister recognising the need to raise the status of technical education.
“Ron Dearing UTC’s employer-led model combines technical and academic qualifications and empowers every student to succeed, no matter their background. The school’s achievements show what can be achieved when education and industry come together to deliver a successful educational formula, developing young people with the skills, qualifications and aptitude to thrive in their chosen careers.
“Not only does this approach to education deliver impressive exam results, it also creates fantastic life opportunities and lasting impact. Yet again 100% of our Year 11 students will progress onto positive destinations and none will be not in employment, education or training (NEETs).”
Students who would like to join Ron Dearing UTC in Year 10 or Year 12 in September 2027 are invited to attend one of three planned Open Events on October 1, November 12, and January 7. For more information, and to book a place, visit www.rondearingutc.com/openevents