Downside School

We are delighted to share some spectacular results achieved by Downside pupils in this year’s GCSE examinations. 85% of all grades were 9-5, and the 95% pass rate at 9-4 equals the best results achieved by Downside pupils since the introduction of the 9-1 grading system in 2017.

Many congratulations must go to the Biology department, where 77% of grades were 9-7, French (78% 9-7) and Spanish (80% 9-7), but also to all those many pupils who matched or exceeded their aspirational target grades. There are many pupils who will be celebrating their results, knowing that their hard work and commitment have paid off, but it would be remiss of us not to single out Megan who achieved a perfect set of grade 9 in all of her 11 subjects: Sasha who achieved 8 grade 9s and 3 grade 8s, and Kaelen, Sofia, Talia, Christof, Ryan, Derek and Mariana who all achieved 8 or more grades of 7 or higher. These are extraordinary achievements.

Where Downside has always excelled is in enabling pupils to achieve higher grades than they may be expected to, according to baseline test scores. The difference between predicted grades based on such test scores and the actual grade achieved is referred to as “Value Added”. Value Added scores are calculated by an independent body, and these will be available to us early next term, but to give an idea of how well Downside pupils did in this year’s GCSE examinations, baseline testing predicted that 11% of all grades would be 9-7, whereas 42% of grades were at this level. We remain convinced that non-selective independent schools have a key role to play in offering parents and pupils a path to success, and this year’s examination results are an affirmation of this belief. We know that one of the things that pupils value most about Downside is how willing teachers are to offer extra support outside of the classroom, often available in breaks and evenings to help individuals with specific questions or needs, and the fruits of such support are evident in the examination results achieved.

We know that many of our Fifth Form will be feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves as they wait to receive their GCSE results tomorrow.

The past few years have been filled with hard work and so many memorable moments. Whatever tomorrow brings, take a moment to recognise everything you have achieved and how far you have come.

We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to Downside as you begin your next chapter in the Sixth Form.

Celebrating another excellent set of A Level & BTEC results at Downside!

We are delighted to celebrate our pupils and the hard work, character and commitment that have led to another excellent set of results.

As a non-selective school, we are particularly delighted that 35% of pupils achieved three or more A/A grades*, while more than a quarter of all subjects were awarded exclusively at A*/A.

A huge congratulations to our outstanding pupils, including twins Molly and Ned, who together achieved five A* grades and two A grades across the sciences and languages, alongside Maria (AAA), Franz (AAAB), Albert (A*AA), Alexander (AAA), Sacha (AAA), Abigail (A*AA) and Juan (A*A*AB).

Our pupils are now heading to leading universities to study a fantastic range of subjects, including Medicine, Law, Physics, Engineering, Music, Social Sciences, Accounting & Finance and Criminology.

We are also celebrating the continued success of our Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), with an impressive 78% of candidates achieving A/A*. From aircraft safety and social media to democracy and Afghanistan, these independent research projects demonstrate the intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and independent learning skills of our pupils.

While results are just one part of a young person’s journey, these achievements are certainly worthy of celebration. We wish the Class of 2026 every success as they take their next steps and join the wider OG community.

Downside Old Gregorian and Wider Community

We are delighted to share the latest ISI report following the full inspection which took place in April 2026.

The report recognises the many strengths of Downside and reflects the commitment shown every day by our pupils and staff. It acknowledges the quality of relationships across the community, the opportunities available to pupils and the way in which the
School seeks to support the development of the whole person.

To read a copy of the full report please go to our website
https://www.downside.co.uk/about-us/reports-reviews/

Good morning from Downside School!

Feeling thankful for our beautiful grounds and the wonderful staff who work so hard to keep our School looking its very best all year round.

We are incredibly blessed to call this beautiful place home.

We are delighted to share the latest ISI report following the full inspection which took place in April 2026.

The report recognises the many strengths of Downside and reflects the commitment shown every day by our pupils and staff. It acknowledges the quality of relationships across the community, the opportunities available to pupils and the way in which the School seeks to support the development of the whole person.

To read a copy of the full report please go to our website https://www.downside.co.uk/about-us/reports-reviews/

Looking forward to some of our upcoming events.

Please visit our website for more information and details on how to book.

https://www.downside.co.uk/category/old-gregorian-events/

Prize Day 2026

What a wonderful day it was to celebrate our pupils successes and say goodbye to our Upper Sixth as they marked the end of their time at Downside and officially joined the OG community.

We are incredibly proud of all that they have achieved and wish them every success and happiness for the future. We hope you are all enjoying a very well-deserved summer!