One School. Many Routes.

August 13, 2026

A Level results day is always an emotional occasion, and this year was no different. For the Class of 2026, it marked the culmination of two years of dedication, perseverance and hard work and there was much to celebrate. From pupils who have been with us from Lower 1 to those who have joined us for Sixth Form, it is inspiring to hear their reflections of their time in Cathedral Close and learn about their planned next steps. We caught up with just a few of this year’s leavers to find out more about their individual journey.

Born to Perform!

At Norwich School, performing arts are a vibrant part of school life. Across music, drama and dance, pupils have countless opportunities to develop their talents, build confidence and express their creativity both on stage and behind the scenes and we are proud to have inspired some of this year’s cohort to go on and continue Performing Arts beyond school.


Name

Will Clarke


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

2D Photography (A*), Theatre Studies (A), English (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were a lot better than I’d hoped!


What’s next?

East 15 in Loughton to do Drama.


What has taken you down that path?

Norwich School! I started doing plays in Year 9 and really enjoyed it and it was like a chain reaction. The more plays I did, the more I wanted to do. Until there was nothing else I wanted to do.


What’s the dream job?

In a dream world, an actor – stage or screen or both!


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The people – friends but staff as well.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Gala night this year was utterly incredible. It started well with the World Cup match right before and we won, and after that the evening was a blur of performing, crying and hugging.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Too much - the people, my friends, the community.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Ineffable!


Name

Melissa Hawkings


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Music (A*), English (A*), Spanish (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I felt the exams went well so I was hopeful but I didn’t have an expectation.


What’s next?

Cambridge University to study Music


What has taken you down that path?

I have always loved music and grew up playing the piano and horn, so it was the most natural choice to go to university to study something I really enjoy.


What’s the dream job?

I would love to be an orchestral musician.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The sense of community and feeling supported by all my friends. Plus the multitude of musical opportunities which I wouldn’t have had if it wasn’t for Norwich School.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I particularly remember the first year I was in Gateway orchestra in Middle 5 and looking up to all the musicians in Upper 6 and thinking they were the coolest people alive and wanting to be like them!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

All the musical groups and the teachers, especially my Music teacher, Mr Stamp, who has been an inspiration.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Surprising.



Name

Rachel Dean


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Theatre Studies (A) and English (B)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They are definitely what I was hoping for!


What’s next?

I am not sure so I am having a gap year but I do want to go to university and it will be to study something creative.


What has taken you down that path?

I wanted a year to build some life skills and look into what the world is like to help me decide what I want to do at university and beyond.


What’s the dream job?

NO IDEA!


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

There are just SO many things to do, especially in performing arts and it’s even more special because of the people you meet whilst you are doing it.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Gala Night this year. It was bittersweet as it was one of the last things we did as a year group but it was really lovely seeing so many people I love all together.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people – they are all awesome!


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Joyful!

Making Their Mark

For some pupils, Norwich School begins in Sixth Form. These inspiring individuals have embraced every opportunity on offer, demonstrating the remarkable accomplishments that can be achieved during their time here.


Name

Lily Minns


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Business (B), Psychology (A), 3D Design (A* - I got full marks which I am thrilled about as I had never done Art before A Level)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Really happy! Weirdly, I wrote down my predicted grades last night and these are exactly what I wrote.


What’s next?

I am going to join the Suffolk Police in a Degree Apprenticeship starting in September.


What has taken you down that path?

I come from a family of public servants – I have military parents and my mother is a carer. So I grew up wanting to be like them but also wanting to do something a little different. The police really appealed to me – it is the idea of being in a position to help others.


What’s the dream job?

Detective.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The atmosphere amongst pupils to strive for more. If I went to a different school, I don’t believe there would be that same push to achieve your dreams.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

There are so many to choose from! But I would say my first day – I was so worked up and nervous about joining and knowing no one but I loved it and was so excited to come back the next day.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I will definitely miss the community – you can talk to anyone anywhere and they would talk and help you.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Challenging … but in a good way!


Name

Emmanuel Milne


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Chemistry (A), Maths (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I think these were realistic for me.


What’s next?

I am having a gap year during which I will be volunteering in Thailand and then I am going to Cardiff University to study Medicine.


What has taken you down that path?

The job offers everything I enjoy – serving people is a privilege, plus there are academic challenges. I am really looking forward to studying about the body and humans.


What’s the dream job?

I want to be a GP.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The community and friends … and the food. I am also looking forward to ON activities and staying connected.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Singing I Vow to Thee My Country and Jerusalem at final assembly.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Lunchtimes, as they were such a time for the community to come together and to spend time relaxing with friends.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Memorable.


Name

Hetty Holden


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Art (A*), 2D Graphic Design (A*) and Maths (A).


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

With the Arts it’s nice having coursework so you know where you are heading and I am very happy with Maths.

What’s next? I am having a year out and then I am going to Sheffield to do Architecture.


What has taken you down that path?

I am having a year out as I have always wanted to go travelling and I have chosen Architecture because it is somewhere between Maths and Art and the patters and structure really appeal to me. Plus I have always loved taking in my surroundings – something which has definitely been created studying in the amazing Cathedral Close.


What’s the dream job?

I am really looking forward to the course and then I’ll see where it takes me. As long as it is any form of architecture.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The community and the ethos.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

That’s such a hard question; I have loved playing netball and got so far with that. But every day, I don’t think anything can beat our tutor group every morning.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Just this summer I have already realised how much I am going to miss seeing my friends every day and the convenience of having everything around me as I have done at school.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Togetherness – everyone is so happy for each other no matter what they are doing,


Name

Mia Scarborough


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

2D Photography (A*), 3D Design (A*), Psychology (B).


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was already pretty sure of my grades with Art and Design but I was unsure about Psychology so I am happy.


What’s next?

London College of Fashion to do Menswear Design.


What has taken you down that path?

I had always wanted to do something to do with fashion and thought I would do some kind of communications role, but being at Norwich School and actually doing the design has made me fall in love with it. So now I can’t imagine not doing something practical. I want to do menswear as it is so unexplored and there is so much space for freedom.


What’s the dream job?

Creative Director of a menswear brand.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The freedom I have been given by the Art and Design department. They have always pushed me to do what I want with no boundaries so when I come up with an idea, they say go for it and help me with it. I couldn’t have asked for more!


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

It’s so hard because there are so many. I joined in Lower 6 and have loved every single moment of it. I wish I had come here sooner.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The teachers – especially my 3D teachers – they have literally changed my life. If it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be doing what I am doing.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Fun.

From First Day to Final Term

These pupils have embraced every stage of Norwich School life, progressing from Lower School through to Sixth Form. As they leave with outstanding results and exciting plans for the future, their achievements reflect the many opportunities and experiences that have shaped their journey.


Name

Tom Irvine


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Chemistry (A*) and Physics (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

It’s what I was hoping for but not was I was expecting as I was a bit worried about Biology.


What’s next?

University of Cambridge to study Medicine.


What has taken you down that path?

Helping people for sure, but I love science and with Medicine you can combine science with human interaction.


What’s the dream job?

I think I would like to go into hospital medicine as a consultant – perhaps in surgery or anaesthetics.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The friends I’ve made and the people around me.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I take away 11 years’ worth of fond memories!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Familiarity. After so long at the school everything and everyone is so familiar and welcoming. I will miss coming here and knowing where everything is and who everyone is.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Opportunities



Name

India-Rose Fox


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Chemistry (A*), Maths (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was definitely hoping for this much but was not expecting these grades. It was a shock, that’s for sure!


What’s next?

Nottingham University to study Medicine.


What has taken you down that path?

I think it has been a combination of things. I have always enjoyed watching programmes like 24 Hours in A&E and I’ve had a few trips to hospital myself, plus I did some work experience and I really enjoyed seeing what doctors get to do and the difference they make.


What’s the dream job?

A surgeon of some sort.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The opportunity to do literally everything I want – whether that’s sport, music or other things I’ve been involved in. It’s all been possible, alongside studies.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

It’s impossible to answer as I’ve been here 11 years and there are so many fond memories!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The cricket team – it’s been so much a part of my life.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Unreal.



Name

Daisy Massey


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Theatre Studies (A*), Psychology (A) and 2D Photography (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Obviously I was keeping my fingers crossed but these results are totally unexpected!


What’s next?

I am following in my sister’s footsteps and going to Sheffield University to study Journalism.


What has taken you down that path?

I have always loved talking and I am nosy, so I love interviewing people!


What’s the dream job?

TV presenter.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Making the friends I have. Meeting so many different people throughout school has definitely made me a better person.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

In 2D when I made the whole class get up and do the conga – even the quiet people did it!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people. The chocolate cake and the chicken burger.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Wholesome

A Calling for Care

Our 2026 leavers are obviously a caring bunch with 12 pupils going onto study healthcare degrees such as medicine. With some of them joining us for Sixth Form, others have been in the Cathedral Close since their early days in the Lower School but they all have one thing in common – a desire to help others in their future career.

Name

Sruthi Santhosh


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Psychology (A*), Chemistry (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I wasn’t expecting them but they are definitely what I was hoping for - I needed an A* in Bioligy for my first choice of university and I didn’t think I’d get it, so I am very happy!


What’s next?

Medicine at UCL.


What has taken you down that path?

I have always wanted to do Medicine and my experiences at Norwich School have definitely helped confirm this. I did volunteering with Able2B through school and I also did work experience in medicine, all of which confirmed this as my top choice. I have especially loved working with children.


What’s the dream job?

I don’t know what I want to specialise in – it’s such a long course I think it will take a while to decide, but perhaps specialising in children’s medicine.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The opportunities. Being able to do a wide range of things from volunteering to musicals and sport. Plus making so many friends.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

This whole last year has been particularly specials, especially being Head of House and going on trips like Eaton Vale and Bramley Lakes. It’s been a wonderful chance to get to know so many people.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I will miss the Cathedral and being in assemblies, but also just being in lessons with friends and teachers.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Buzzing



Name

Isio Emore


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Chemistry (A*), Maths (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

A lot better! I was expecting to go into clearing!!


What’s next?

Medicine at UCL.


What has taken you down that path?

I have done some medical work experience as well and thought it was amazing, especially the surgical work which was awesome. A lot of people view Medicine as studying just to be a doctor but there is so much more to it than that – you can do anything with a medical degree, such as clinical work, medical technology and start-ups. There is so much to learn!


What’s the dream job?

Honesty can’t say – Doctor but more than that I would like to be an entrepreneur. I would love to give key note talks.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

I love that everyone takes an interest in everyone and everyone speaks to everyone. We are just one big community.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Qualifying for the Netball nationals. We had always managed to qualify for the regional stage so to finally get to nationals was magical!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The whole Norwich School experience; the buildings, the memories, the friends, the familiarity of every day – it feels like home.



Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Awesome. If you can think of a situation where everything good comes at you all once – Norwich School is that feeling.



Name

Sissi Chan


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Chemistry (A), Maths (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I’m really happy.


What’s next?

I’m going to apply next year to do Dentistry. So I am hoping to do plenty of work experience in my gap year.


What has taken you down that path?

I really enjoy the sciences and practicality of dental work. I have also done dental work experience and really enjoyed it.


What’s the dream job?

Orthodontics would be interesting but I will keep my options open.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The community here is amazing.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Meeting so many people and making friends.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people and my friends.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Incredible.


STEM Success

At Norwich School, STEM learning extends far beyond the classroom. Through outstanding facilities in Horsefair House and inspiring teaching, pupils develop the confidence to investigate, experiment and excel. These pupils are now building on that foundation as they pursue STEM-related degrees and careers.


Name

Georgia Lloyd


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

PRE (A*), Psychology (A*) and Maths (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were definitely what I was hoping for but I am completely shocked!


What’s next?

Psychological and Behavioural Science at the University of Cambridge.


What has taken you down that path?

I’ve always been fascinated by the mind and the link between science and philosophy, and I felt the course combined these really well.


What’s the dream job?

Tough question. I could go into research and that’s something I’d like to explore. Also interested in doing a doctorate in counselling and cognitive psychology.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The community and all the extra opportunities. Plus the food is also very good – I love the lasagne.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Helping lead house shout and coming 7th but having a great time doing it. We sang Paradise by George Ezra.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Being around every day and the people.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Exciting


Name

Josie Dixon


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Maths (A*), Physics (A).


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I am very happy.


What’s next?

Marine Biology at St Andrews.


What has taken you down that path?

I have wanted to do it for ages. I love the ocean and the fact that only 5% of it is discovered. I can’t wait to learn more.


What’s the dream job?

Marine biologist specialising in marine mammals.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The sense of community and also all the opportunities.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Getting to the national netball finals was incredible – especially that we finally managed to do it in our last year.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people, especially as I am going to be so far away.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Too much to narrow it down to one word!



Name

Jeremy Lo


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths, Physics and Computer Science.


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I got the results I was hoping for so I am really happy.


What’s next?

Bristol for University to study Computer Science.


What has taken you down that path?

I’ve been interested in computers and robotics from a very young age, right back in Lower School when I was learning about PowerPoint or Scratch. I like the planning and organisation it involves, and I have always enjoyed problem solving and puzzles.


What’s the dream job?

Cyber security at GSHQ, or perhaps coming back to school to teach.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

There is so much! The environment, such as assemblies in the Cathedral. The staff are so helpful, kind and offer so much encouragement. Supportive peers. I have also loved Cross Country – and the camaraderie of fellow pupils and coaches supporting and cheering for you on. Plus the opportunities school has given me, such as musical concerts and masterclasses, and academic competitions.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

A very memorable assembly I did for Chinese New Year. I was due to sing a song but moments before we discovered the piano was broken and the speakers weren’t working. We just somehow improvised and despite it being slightly off beat, people said they really liked it!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Friends, and people in general, especially staff such as Mr Hudson and Miss Seago.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

I need a thesaurus but in one word I would say uplifting.


By Sonja Mitchell September 2, 2026
This October, Sketch for Survival returns to Norwich , to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a special exhibition at the Crypt Gallery under the Norwich School Chapel.
By Eleanor Lewis August 20, 2026
It was a joy to see the school come to life once again as our 2026 GCSE cohort arrived to collect their results and it was a record breaking year, so there was much to celebrate. Congratulations to each and every pupil - your dedication, resilience and commitment are reflected in an outstanding set of results. There were also some remarkable individual performances, with many pupils achieving exceptional outcomes. We caught up with some of them to learn more about their successes and hear about what they are looking forward to as they embark on their exciting next steps. Art Here at Norwich School we are enormously proud of our Cater Building, which boasts three floors of cutting edge art and design equipment, across multiple art and design studios and workshops. These pupils demonstrate their love of creative art and look forward to spending more time in Carter exploring their creativity in Sixth Form. Name Isla How many GCSEs did you take? 10 What were your results? 9 x grade 9 and 1 x grade 8 What was your favourite subject and why? History – I loved my class and the lessons were so much fun! What will you go on to study in Sixth Form? History, 2D Art, Psychology and Politics. Is there any particular reason or inspiration for choosing these A Levels? I really enjoyed History and 2D Art at GCSE, so wanted to continue studying these subjects. What are you most looking forward to about going into Sixth Form? The freedom and more independence. What are your co-curricular activities? I love hockey and I am looking forward to joining the Debating Team in Sixth Form. What do you love most about being a pupil at Norwich School? The community.
By Eleanor Lewis August 20, 2026
We are thrilled to announce record-breaking GCSE results for 2026. Overall percentages are as follows: 37% at grade 9 - best performance ever, including Covid years 59% at grades 9-8 (A*) – best performance outside Covid years 76% at grades 9-7 (A*-A) – best performance since Covid 87% at grades 9-6 (A*-B) 97%: overall pass-rate (grades 9-4) Outstanding individual performances included: 1 candidate with 11 x 9 or better; 6 candidates with 10 x 9 or better; 16 candidates with 9 x 9 or better; 24 candidates with 8 x 9 or better; 32 candidates with 7 x 9 or better; 38 candidates with 6 x 9 or better. Overall, of the 1163 grades received, 431 were at grade 9, 681 at 9-8 and 884 at 9-7. Steffan Griffiths, Head, commented, “This is the first cohort to benefit from the school’s decision to offer greater optionality regarding number and choice of subjects at GCSE. We are all delighted that our Year 11 have taken advantage of the change to such brilliant effect. “Taken collectively, they are the best GCSE results in the school’s history and I offer heartfelt congratulations to the pupils on their generation. They are in a wonderful position now to make the most of our outstanding Sixth Form provision and we look forward to welcoming them back in September.” Assistant Head (Fifth Form), Andrew Curtis, said, “I offer sincere congratulations to our Upper 5 pupils on their record-breaking results. Well-supported both at home and at school, they have excelled academically while also making the most of co-curricular opportunities in sport, drama, music and the wider community. We look forward to supporting them as they make the exciting transition to benefit from the development available both inside and outside the classroom in our Sixth Form.”
By Sonja Mitchell August 19, 2026
FONS is proud to support partnerships with the local community
By Sonja Mitchell August 19, 2026
Friends of Norwich School were delighted to support this event for the second year running
By Sonja Mitchell August 19, 2026
FONS has funded materials for L6 pupils to design a mural in the UKS Cafe
By Sonja Mitchell August 19, 2026
Ben tells us what inspired him to write his new book which is out now.
By Eleanor Lewis August 19, 2026
Norwich School is thrilled to have achieved the best A Level results in the county: 24% A*; 53% A*-A; 80% A*-B; 92% A*-C. If we focus on STEM subjects, the results are even better, with 31% at A* and 65% at A*-A. Maths, Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Computer Science form an important part of our 6th Form offer, with just under 200 of our 500 U6 grades in these subjects. The raw numbers are 62 A* and 66 A grades which have led to a huge number of exciting onward STEM routes. Overall, over 75% (123 pupils) have got to their first choice onward route, with over 90% (over 150 pupils) to first or second choice. The STEM outcomes are even more eye-catching: 87% of STEM places accepted were at Russell Group universities; 5 out 5 STEM Oxbridge candidates successfully made their offers (with a total of 17 A* out of 18 grades!) 7 out of 8 (88%) of medics got into their first choice university (national average of 33%); 2 out of 2 (100%) of vets got their first choice; 11 out of 11 engineers (100%) were accepted onto Engineering courses (university or apprenticeship); 6 out 6 Computer Science applicants (100%) were accepted onto Computer Science courses; If you are interested in STEM for Sixth Form, join the best and study at Norwich School: outstanding STEM facilities; expert teachers and strong laboratory ratios; personalised provision and onward route guidance; unrivalled STEM enrichment opportunities, including: clubs and societies (MedSoc, Maths Club, F24 car, Chess Club); Olympiad preparation; independent project; community service. To hear about some of our STEM Successes from this year's cohort click here. Interested in studying STEM at Norwich School? Book a tour today - places available from September 2026! Contact admissions@norwich-school.org.uk.
By Eleanor Lewis August 19, 2026
At Norwich School, STEM learning extends far beyond the classroom. Through outstanding facilities in Horsefair House and inspiring teaching, pupils develop the confidence to investigate, experiment and excel. There is no question that this was reflected in this year’s A Level results. So, we caught up with just a few of our scientists to find out what’s next for them.
By Eleanor Lewis August 13, 2026
The school is pleased to announce strong A Level results. The cohort of Upper 6 candidates have achieved the following: 24% of grades at A*; 53% of grades at A*-A; 80% at A*-B; 92% at A*-C; 98% at A*-E. Outstanding individual performances included: 2 candidates with 4 A*; 12 candidates with 3A* or more; 52 candidates with 3A or more. The Head, Steffan Griffiths, said, “I am delighted for the Class of 2026; they have been a wonderful year-group, setting high standards in our community across all areas of our provision, including sport, music, drama, dance and service. As is evident in these strong results, impressive academic progress has matched their extensive co-curricular activity, onward individual routes are equally exciting and we look forward to staying in touch so that we can hear of their future successes”. Richard Sims, Head of Sixth Form, commented, “This cohort of young people have been good friends to each other and exemplary role models to younger pupils. I am pleased that they have now finished their time in Cathedral Close with pleasing academic results, too. Throughout their studies, they have enjoyed support from families at home and teachers in school; on the pupils’ behalf, I pass on my gratitude to them. I close by offering sincere good wishes for our leavers’ next steps”. NB: specific grade percentages will be published when the subject paper review process has been completed.
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