GCSE success for pupils at Maple Hayes Dyslexia School
Maple Hayes Dyslexia School is celebrating after GCSE grade improvements across the board despite challenges thrown up by changes to exam procedures this year.
Each member of staff is proud to have played a part in transforming the lives of our cohort, many of whom were unable to read or write when joining the school.
They are now celebrating a fantastic achievement with five pupils getting eight full GCSEs, while 50 per cent achieved five or more.
History, Art and Design and English Language results were particularly strong, with 67 per cent of pupils achieving a grade four or higher in their studies for the latter.
Dr Daryl Brown said: “This year’s results are especially pleasing when you consider how changes to the exam system this year affect dyslexic pupils.
“The reading of content around the questions was more strenuous than in previous years and required more in terms of short term memory acquisition, which doesn’t play to the strengths of our pupils.
“The removal of coursework also means the pressure surrounding exams, where timing is much more crucial, is greater.
“Our pupils have risen to the challenge and performed exceptionally well, thanks in part to our incredible staff and their supportive parents.
“They have all achieved what is required of them to make the step to their chosen college, sixth form placement or apprenticeship.
“We wish all of our pupils the best of luck in their next academic steps and future careers.”
Maple Hayes Dyslexia School currently holds an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating following an inspection in November 2017.
Alumni have gone on to study at college and university - with some going on to gain PhDs.
Pupil Billy Walker, who achieved six GCSEs including level four English and Maths, said: “I am delighted with my results, particularly looking back on when I started here.
“I have travelled in from Solihull every day, so it is quite a way to travel but this is the only school that could have got me to this position.
“I will be doing Level One bricklaying course at Moreton Morrell College, having level 4 for English and Maths means I have more time for a practical placement so even though my English and Maths results don’t directly contribute to that, I can fully focus my time on my new course rather than retaking subjects.”