The overall picture in the new GCSE results this year was mixed for students across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Perhaps most significantly, the cumulative pass rate has dropped substantially. In England, the overall pass rate fell to 67.1% down from 67.4% in 2024. Yet Wales and Northern Ireland both registered increases in their own pass rates, which can be attributed to a varied educational sphere that continues to evolve.
One of the student’s that topped the lot this year is Jude, son of Nigerian immigrants, who scored 9s in every subject. It’s his extraordinary thoughtfulness, combined with that tremendous talent, that marks him as a bright, shining, exceptional scholar. Finn wants to be King — top 9s from Finn. I hope everyone managed to enjoy at least a little bit of sunshine last week! He got an 8 in English Language, just three marks off a grade 9.
Georgina performed wonderfully too, getting grade 9s in English Literature and English Language. She went on to gain 8s in both Biology and Sociology, with 6s in Maths and Drama. She got a grade 5 in Chemistry. Her accomplishments contribute to the ongoing narrative of student success amidst challenges.
This was significantly lower than the overall GCSE pass rate of 67.4% for all of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland combined. Wales fared better, increasing its pass rate to 62.5% – up from 62.2%. Northern Ireland made a huge leap in its pass rate to 83.5%, an increase from 82.7%. At the same time, England’s pass rate speaks to lasting downturn, underscoring a need to support students more than ever.
In 2025, the gender gap in pass rates started to close. Boys were at a finishing pass rate of 64.3%, girls 70.5%. This is the narrowest gap ever recorded between male and female students, an encouraging sign that we are moving towards educational equality.
By region, London had the highest pass rate geographically – 71.6% – and the West Midlands the lowest at 62.9%. These regional disparities further highlight the difference in student challenges and successes from coast to coast.
Niki Tailor, a passionate educator, has accounted for tracking her kids from Year 7. In her own words, on results day, she thought back to that precious time together.
“I’ve been with my students since Year 7. I remember them coming to school on their first day. It’s a full circle moment. It’s the end of a journey, for us and the students, but a start of a new one.” – Niki Tailor
Craig Rutherford offered a very different take on his son Finn’s performance. He noted Finn’s laidback demeanor:
“I almost feel sick to my stomach on results day.” – Niki Tailor
Rutherford emphasized his pride in Finn’s efforts regardless of the outcome:
“If he were any more laidback, he’d be lying down.” – Craig Rutherford
Amid the pressures of exam results, students like Noah voiced their aspirations for future success:
“No matter the result, I am proud. If he is disappointed, it’s my job to help him through disappointment. He’s tried his best and, if that’s not good enough, we’ll be there for him.” – Craig Rutherford
Betty expressed gratitude for her supportive school environment:
“I feel pressure to do well, because if I do well now, I know I will have the motivation to do well in college.” – Noah
Strong friendships played a role in this year’s results day experience, as Milly Johnson highlighted her bond with her best friend:
“My hands were shaking, I felt like I was going to pass out, it determines my future.” – Gabriel
In a more positive light, Betty expressed gratitude for her supportive school environment:
“I’m so glad all my hard work paid off. Malden is a really supportive school and helped me so much. I’m going to Esher College to do English literature, film and philosophy.” – Betty
Gabriel found relief in passing his exams despite feeling overwhelmed:
“I’m going to go home, sleep and then go out to get my freebies.” – Gabriel
Zane humorously articulated his modest expectations:
“All I’m looking for is a D in Maths.” – Zane
Another student celebrated an unexpected success after surpassing predictions:
“I passed French, I got 5 but I was predicted a U so I’m really happy.” – A student
Strong friendships also played a role in this year’s results day experience, as Milly Johnson highlighted her bond with her best friend:
“He’s my best friend and he comes pretty much everywhere with me.” – Milly Johnson
