Sharples School celebrates record-break on GCSE Results Day

Sharples School has recorded its highest-ever GCSE results, with 73.5 per cent achieving grade 5 or above in English and maths.

The Bolton secondary school achieved record-breaking results in 2026, with 87 per cent of pupils gaining grade 4 or above in both core subjects.

One student achieved 11 grade 9s, while many others gained the grades needed to move on to college courses, sixth-form studies and apprenticeships.

(Image: Sharples School)

Headteacher Caroline Molyneux said: “We are delighted at Sharples that the class of 2026 have achieved record-breaking results, the best ever in the history of the school.

“73.5 per cent of students achieved Grade 5+ in both English and maths. 87 per cent achieved Grade 4+ in both subjects.

“It is a testament to the hard work that students and staff have put in over their five years with us, and we would also like to thank all our parents for their support.

“Our top-performing student achieved 11 straight grade 9s in GCSE subjects.

“There are also many students who achieved the vital grades they needed to go onto their chosen pathway at college and to do apprenticeships.

(Image: Sharples School)

“We are very proud of all of our students.”

She said the figures reflected the work of pupils and staff, while parents were also thanked for their support.

The results place Sharples above national figures. Across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, around 22 per cent of GCSE entries achieved grade 7 or above in 2026.

More than two-thirds of entries secured at least a grade 4 pass. National results were broadly similar to last year, with a small rise in top grades.

(Image: Sharples School)

Sharples School, on Hill Cot Road serves more than 1,200 students; the school has previously submitted plans for extra classrooms at its Hill Cot Road base.

The school has a focus on academic achievement and STEM education. Its motto, “Learn. Dream. Achieve.”, supports its approach inside and outside the classroom.

Facilities include a health hub with a swimming pool, an observatory and grounds covering more than 30 acres. The 2026 results mark another milestone in the school’s history, following the launch of a new observatory project.