The newest exam league tables have spotlighted the outstanding secondary schools across the West Midlands. While private and grammar schools frequently dominate the top rankings by attracting academically high-achieving pupils, many state schools across the region are also excelling and exceeding expectations.
These inner-city and town schools often face hurdles that private and grammar institutions typically do not, which makes their strong GCSE performances in English and maths even more commendable.
For instance, within Birmingham, the renowned King Edward VI schools lead the lists, alongside prominent institutions such as Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls and Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School. However, among mainstream state schools, Bishop Walsh Catholic School and Arthur Terry School in Sutton Coldfield, as well as Birmingham Ormiston Academy, stand out for their impressive results.
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Beyond Birmingham, state schools like Sandwell Academy, Summerhill School, Barr Beacon School, and Highfield School in the Black Country have also achieved notable success.
These schools were evaluated primarily based on the percentage of students achieving Grade 5 or above in GCSE English and maths, highlighting those that consistently ‘punch above their weight’ in academic performance throughout the Midlands.