Dunottar pupils are celebrating another year of academic success, with strong GCSE results announced just a week after the school’s record-breaking A-level performance. Almost half of all GCSE grades this year were awarded at 9-7 – an excellent achievement that reflects the dedication and aspiration of pupils and teachers within a proudly mixed-ability school.
Headmaster, Mr Mark Tottman, said:
“I am absolutely delighted with this superb set of GCSE results, building on the outstanding A-level outcomes achieved last week. Together, these results underline the transformational education that Dunottar provides. I am immensely proud of our Warrior Learners who are excelling academically and thriving in sport, music, drama, leadership and service. They are superb role models, equipped with strong values and self-belief, and I look forward to welcoming them, alongside our new Sixth Form joiners, into the next stage of their education.”
Among the individual successes was Lily, who achieved extraordinary value-added results. She said: “I am so proud of what I’ve achieved. The support from my teachers was incredible – they always believed in me and encouraged me to aim high. I’m now excited to start A-levels in Biology, Physical Education, and Food Science and Nutrition in the Sixth Form, and to pursue my dream of studying Veterinary Physiotherapy.”
At A-level last week, 72% of grades were A*–B – the highest since Headmaster Mr Mark Tottman’s appointment – with 37% at A*–A and 96% of Sixth Form leavers securing their first or second choice university. These exceptional results demonstrate the strength of Dunottar’s Sixth Form in enabling pupils to fulfil their potential and achieve their individual goals.
Together, these stellar outcomes confirm Dunottar’s reputation as the area’s leading small independent school. The Good School’s Guide described Dunottar as, “brimming with happy children achieving their full potential . . . a small school with a big heart.” The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) also praised the school, noting that “pupils flourish in their academic work from their individual starting points and are inspired to discover and develop their talents.”
For parents, these results represent far more than examination grades alone. Year 11 parent, Mrs Cooper, reflected:
“The transformation I’ve seen in my son during his time at Dunottar has been remarkable. The combination of academic stretch, pastoral care and co-curricular opportunities has enabled him to achieve results beyond our expectations and, just as importantly, to do so with confidence and happiness.”