A-level stars: Queen’s shine bright

The Queen’s School in Chester is delighted to see the hard work and resilience of students pay off as 80% secure their first choice of university.

More than 50% of the girls will be going on to study a STEM subject following another year of fantastic A-level results.

They will be embarking on a wide variety of exciting and captivating courses such as Physics with Astrophysics, Medicine, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Maths, Chemistry, Optometry and Microbiology to name but a few.

Two girls are off to Oxbridge with Raka Chattopadhyay (5 x A*) studying Mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge and Tallulah Tilley (3 x A* and A* for EPQ) reading History at Brasenose College, Oxford. Four girls, Amy Agnew, Tyra Soe, Jemima Higby and Harriet Luff will be studying Medicine, while three, Lucy Newcombe, Jessica Samarji and Raphaela Tant, are off to study Law.

For the second year in a row we are proud to see one of our talented artists, Cara McCann, heading off to London to the prestigious Central St Martins to study a foundation diploma in Art and Design. Further afield we see Mari-Loek Wagenaar off to study Global Studies in at Maastritch University in The Netherlands.

Headmistress Sue Wallace Woodroofe said: “These outstanding results reflect the dedication, perseverance, and commitment of our Year 13 girls, as well as the unwavering support they have received from our dedicated teachers and staff.

“Today marks the culmination of all their hard work I am so proud of each and every one of them. Waiting for exam results is always an anxious time, for us as much as the girls, and they never cease to amaze us with their resilience and enthusiasm. It is always so pleasing for us to see them embrace the next chapter and they then can leave Queen’s knowing that they have laid a strong foundation for success. I have no doubt that they will thrive in whatever path they choose as they explore new horizons and continue to strive for greatness.

“I am particularly proud to be able to say that 80% of girls are off to their first choice of university with over 50% of them choosing to pursue STEM subjects. This achievement highlights the incredible strides our students are making in fields traditionally underrepresented by women. By fostering an environment where girls are encouraged to explore their passions without limitations, we are empowering them to break down barriers and follow their ambitions. This success not only underlines our commitment to providing a platform for young women to excel in any domain but also demonstrates the transformative impact of an all-girls education in preparing students to thrive in diverse and dynamic fields.”

Almost 80% of grades were achieved at A*- B with 100% of students achieving A*- A in Art, Computing and Further Maths, and 100% of students achieving A*- B in English Literature, Classical Civilisation, Design Technology and Geography.

These achievements mirror more than just academic excellence; they embody the ethos of Queen’s nurturing environment. Students benefit from an award-winning careers programme providing them with bespoke guidance and support that ensures they make informed choices, setting them on a path towards fulfilling and successful futures.

Head of Sixth Form Mr Robin Wilson said: “The impressive array of university destinations and courses our girls are embarking upon are a testament to the exceptional guidance provided by our dedicated careers department and staff. Their tireless commitment to offering personalised support is truly beyond measure. In our tightly knit sixth form environment, each girl is more than a name; she is known and valued by both academic and pastoral staff, and we see this as pivotal in nurturing contentment, fulfilment, and the drive to achieve personal goals. As we proudly watch our Year 13 students stepping into their next chapters, I know that they depart as not only academically prepared but also as confident, compassionate, and resilient young women, poised to tackle the world's challenges and seize its opportunities.

“In the weeks ahead, we eagerly await their return as our newest alumni, vital custodians of Queen’s legacy and spirit. As former students, they embody the school's profound influence in shaping successful, compassionate, and accomplished women. The connection between Queen’s and its alumni is a lifelong bond, and their support, mentorship and active involvement make a significant difference and enrich the experiences of our current students.”

The following girls received all grades at A*- B. Congratulations to Amy Agnew (3xA* and A* EPQ), Katie Barlow (A, B, B) Elinor Bellis ( A*, A, A), Raka Chattopadhyay (5xA*), Kai Clish (4xA* and A* EPQ), Lucy Davies (D3, B, B), Catie Golding (D2, B, B), Ottilie Goodfellow (A, B, B), Jessica Harding (A, A, B and A* EPQ), Matilda Hughes (A*, A, A), Francesca Jennings (A, A, B, B and A EPQ), Holly Jones (3xB), Alys Kerfoot (A*, A, A and A* EPQ), Cara McCann (D1, B, B), Malyssa McGarrity (A, A, B and B EPQ), Rosie Meade (D2, A*, A), Holly Mulligan (4xA* and A* EPQ), Ruby Piddington (B, B, B), Eleanor Railton (3xA), Erin Smales (D2, A, A and B EPQ), Tyra Soe (3xA and A EPQ), Paru Sumita (A*, A, A) Raphaela Tant (A*, A, A), Tallulah Tilley (3xA* and A* EPQ), Katie Townsend (D1, A*, B and A* EPQ)