YEAR 11 pupils at the specialist More House School in Frensham are celebrating GCSE and the BTEC equivalent triumph, having overcome the barriers posed by specific learning and language difficulties.

They notched up an impressive 73 per cent A* to C pass rate in their GCSE and BTEC-equivalent courses, which surpasses the reported national average of 66 per cent,

Diagnosed with dyslexia, speech and language processing disorders, social communication difficulties or other associated conditions, More House pupils travel a unique journey which must start with their learning to believe in themselves.

Despite nearly half of the year 11 pupils having a statement of special educational needs or a new education, health and care plan, that belief has been proved well-placed by the school’s GCSE and BTEC results this summer.

Ninety-nine per cent of GCSE and equivalent BTEC courses taken by More House pupils were awarded passes, and 54 per cent of pupils secured at least five GCSE and equivalent passes at grade C or higher, and including English and mathematics.

Headmaster Jonathan Hetherington congratulated his pupils and staff. “What our pupils have achieved, and the challenges each has overcome, are extraordinary, and reflect the tenacity of our students and the incredible commitment and expertise of our teachers and wider staff.”

He noted that 47 per cent of those pupils whose level of special needs is represented by a statement, or an education, health and care plan, achieved five A* to C passes including English and mathematics.

He also noted that 39 per cent of certificates awarded were at grade B equivalent or higher, and that 17 per cent of grades achieved were the highest A* and A grades or BTEC equivalent to distinction * and distinction.

A majority of pupils will now enter the sixth form to study A-level and equivalent courses, and many are expected to progress to university in two years’ time.