The academic ethos at Blundell’s is fuelled by a number of complementary principles and beliefs.
We see exam performance as a way of opening doors in the future, rather than an end unto itself.
Our highly effective academic approach is based on the very latest research into the way in which pupils learn. Self-efficacy, derived from both believing that you can succeed and being believed in, is key, as we know that a pupil with drive and determination to do well, whatever their academic ability, will find achievement at every turn.
Complementing this, we have a carefully-constructed system in place to guide pupils towards a more active approach to their learning. Rather than sitting back and listening, we need our pupils to be on the front foot – asking questions, discussing ideas, looking things up, engaged and thinking for themselves.
Finally, our commitment to entwine the academic and the pastoral; that pupils learn when they are supported and happy, and that they are supported and happy when they are learning, ensures that every pupil at Blundell’s is known and fully supported to achieve their best.
Academic Results
We are tremendously proud of our pupils for their outstanding A-level results, marking the second consecutive year they have exceeded the significant threshold of 80% A*-B grades since the return to normal grading post-COVID. Notably, 49% of all grades achieved were either A* or A. Among our cohort of 98 pupils, four achieved three or more A* grades, and 21 pupils earned all As and As. Our value-added performance remains strong across all ability levels. Although we are not an academically selective school, it is worth noting that our top 50 pupils—who could have attended such schools if they chose—achieved an impressive 76% A/A and 99% A*-B. Truly remarkable.
These achievements are even more impressive considering the pupils' successes in music, drama, sport, and Duke of Edinburgh awards. This confirms that a well-rounded education goes far beyond grades alone. In fact, much evidence suggests that a diverse and active involvement in these pursuits enhances rather than undermines academic achievement.
We are also thrilled that 90% of our pupils secured places at their first-choice universities, most of which are Russell Group institutions in the UK. Additionally, there is a growing number of pupils exploring opportunities in Europe, America and Australia.
I want to particularly commend our inspirational staff, who have unwaveringly supported and believed in our pupils. It has been our privilege to walk this journey with them, and we celebrate their success with joy and gratitude. Such exceptional results are not a matter of chance, but the direct outcome of the relentless dedication of both our academic and support staff, who are deeply committed to our pupils' success and well-being. I am profoundly grateful to them.
The Blundell’s community remains dedicated to preparing young people to excel in the opportunities and challenges ahead. Today’s results fill us with immense optimism for the contributions these young men and women will make to society, and what they will achieve in the future.
A-LEVEL
Results 2024, 2023, 2019, 2018
In these years, exams were sat in the traditional way
| %A*/A | %A* - B | %A* - C | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 49 | 80 | 92 |
| 2023 | 54 | 80 | 91 |
| 2019 | 40 | 66 | 86 |
| 2018 | 46 | 71 | 88 |
Results 2022
Grades this year were set higher than usual, to move back towards pre-pandemic levels
| %A*/A | %A* - B | %A* - C | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 52 | 78 | 90 |
Results 2021 / 2020
In the pandemic years, pupils were assessed in a different way, which led to grades being higher than usual
| %A*/A | %A* - B | %A* - C | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 68 | 87 | 94 |
| 2020 | 54 | 82 | 95 |
GCSE
Results 2023, 2019, 2018
In these years, exams were sat in the traditional way
| %9-8 | %9-7 | %9-4 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 41 | 57 | 96 |
| 2023 | 30 | 49 | 98 |
| 2019 | 40 | 56 | 94 |
| 2018 | 27 | 46 | 91 |
Results 2022
Grades this year were set higher than usual, to move back towards pre-pandemic levels
| %9-8 | %9-7 | %9-4 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 39 | 58 | 96 |
Results 2021 / 2020
In the pandemic years, pupils were assessed in a different way, which led to grades being higher than usual
| %9-8 | %9-7 | %9-4 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 62 | 76 | 99 |
| 2020 | 43 | 63 | 98 |
On Thursday the 23rd of January, we were delighted to welcome the internationally acclaimed composer Joanna Forbes L’Estrange to Blundell’s for an afternoon of workshops with the Senior and Prep School choirs. This year’s Spring Concert, The Seasons, includes the world premiere of A Season to Sing, a piece co-commissioned by Blundell’s.
We are delighted to share that Blundell's School has been ranked 244th in The Times' Parent Power list, a prestigious ranking based on GCSE and A-Level results.
Our position reflects the strong academic achievements of our pupils, particularly given the highly selective nature of many of the schools ranked alongside us.
The Department for Education has released its rankings for A Level progress following the final ratification of summer 2024 examination results.
We are delighted to announce that Blundell’s has secured 2nd place in Devon, narrowly being pipped to top spot by Exeter Maths School.
Blundell’s is proud to be among the top 5% of schools nationwide, earning the highest rating of “Well above average” from the Department for Education. These rankings are based on a comparison of A Level results, measuring students’ progress against peers across England who began with similar GCSE outcomes at the end of Year 11.
Chris Filbey, the new Second Master to take over from Matt Radley in September 2025. Chris is currently an Assistant Head at Epsom College where he was previously a Housemaster. Before that he was Head of Modern Languages at Haileybury. I look forward to working with Chris and we will introduce him to the wider Blundell’s community in due course.
Head Coach Kenny Murray has named a 34-player Scotland U20 squad to compete in the 2025 U20 Six Nations.
The group consists of 19 forwards and 15 backs, and will get their championship underway at home to Italy U20 on Friday 31 January at Hive Stadium.
Johnny Ventisei will captain the squad, having led the side against Wales U20 in a friendly in December.
Freddy Douglas, who won a first Scotland senior cap against Portugal in November last year, is selected as he nears a return from injury.
Blundell’s is thrilled to announce our investment in The Wellbeing Hub by Teen Tips, a comprehensive resource dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our Senior School community. With expert-led, evidence-based tools, The Wellbeing Hub will empower pupils, parents, and staff with guidance and resources to support students’ social, emotional, and educational needs. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
During this Autumn Term, our Drama Scholars delivered an impressive Autumn Showcase featuring their examination pieces. The performances spanned Restoration Comedy, Comedy of Manners, Musical Theatre, contemporary works, and original material.
The evening highlighted the scholars’ talent, creativity, and dedication, showcasing the high standard of drama at Blundell’s. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing their continued growth.
House Music was a highlight of the term, with standout performances from Reuben (Old House) winning the Solo Performance Trophy and Nico (Westlake) earning Best Individual Contribution. North Close won the Ensemble Trophy, and Old House claimed both the House Song and overall titles. Pupils were praised for their energy and effort throughout the event.
An incredible experience for our pupils to sing in one of the world’s most famous churches