Distinction grades rise as Wrenn students prepare for ambitious futures

Students at Wrenn School in Wellingborough are celebrating ambitious university, apprenticeship and performing arts destinations after the school recorded a significant improvement in vocational results.

Provisional results show that more than six in ten vocational entries, 61%, achieved Distinction or Distinction*, compared with 39% in 2025.

The proportion awarded Merit or above increased from 71% to 94%, while 99% of vocational entries achieved a Pass or higher. The average grade awarded this year to Wrenn students was a Distinction.

The improvement was achieved across a broadly comparable number of entries, with 88 vocational entries in 2026 and 92 the previous year.

Wrenn also recorded progress across their A-Level outcomes. The proportion of academic entries achieving A*-C grades increased from 60% to 65%, while 97% achieved A*-E, up from 89% in 2025.

Behind the figures are individual students preparing to pursue their interests and ambitions through university, specialist education, apprenticeships and employment.

Bohdana Rybalko is a particular success story, achieving A*, A*, A, A, and going on to  study Law at the University of Sheffield next year. 

Bohdana said: “Everything happens for a reason - the thing I valued most about Wrenn was the approach of the teachers - they never stepped away from offering additional support and were always happy to help.”

Wrenn student Yashvi Master (ABB) will be studying Engineering at the University of Nottingham after developing a particular interest in design, architecture and computer-aided design. 

During her studies, Yashvi developed her practical and creative skills through architectural work experience and ambitious coursework, including the creation of a model inspired by the Taj Mahal.

Yashvi said: “I cherished my experiences at Wrenn both in and outside of the classroom. I enjoyed successes that go beyond the results I achieved including the journey, lessons and people who helped me along the way. I am looking forward to my next steps and my future career in Engineering.”

Among those also celebrating is Lola Yarker, who is aiming to take up a place at Bird College, a specialist performing arts institution.

Lola has trained with Kilburn School of Dance since the age of seven and has developed her skills across several dance disciplines. She has competed nationally and internationally, including representing Team England at the Dance World Cup.

Her progression to specialist performing arts training would mark the next stage of a journey shaped by years of commitment, performance and competition.

Lola said: “I’m incredibly proud of how well I’ve done in my A Levels, and I’m so grateful to Wrenn School for all the support, encouragement and guidance they’ve given me along the way. Their belief in me has helped me achieve results I’m truly proud of, and I’ll always appreciate everything they’ve done to help me get here.”

Aaron Agyeman is aiming to study Marketing at the University of Lancaster after gaining practical experience of the sector through placements connected with theatre and hospitality.

Aaron also contributed to the promotion of Wrenn’s sixth form by helping to film and edit school events, putting developing marketing and media skills into practice while supporting the wider school community.

Another success story is is Katie Pentelow, who will study English Literature at the University of Warwick.

Katie has made a significant contribution to school life, including delivering a speech through Creative Education Trust’s public-speaking programme. She also completed an extended project qualification, achieving an A* for her independent work.

The destinations form part of a broad picture of progression at Wrenn. A total of 91% of the cohort applied through UCAS and secured offers, including offers from Russell Group universities, while several other students have pursued apprenticeship opportunities. Final progression figures will be confirmed following Results Day.

Students have contributed extensively to Wrenn and the wider community throughout their time in the sixth form.

Members of the cohort have supported younger students through reading, peer mentoring and GCSE study as part of the school’s Give-Back leadership programme. Students have also participated in charitable and community activities, while Alfie Richards has served as a Member of Youth Parliament for North Northamptonshire.

These contributions reflect Wrenn’s values of working hard, respecting others, enjoying learning, never giving up and navigating the future.

Laura Parker, Principal of Wrenn School, said: “Today is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and ambitions of our Year 13 students and the many exciting opportunities they have created for their futures.

“We are particularly pleased with the significant improvement in our vocational outcomes. More than six in ten entries achieved Distinction or Distinction*, while almost every vocational entry secured a Pass or higher. These outcomes reflect the commitment of our students and the dedication of the staff who have supported and challenged them.

“What stands out about this year group is its community spirit. Students have supported one another and made a valuable contribution to the wider school through mentoring, leadership, volunteering and charitable activities.

“Whether students are progressing to university, specialist education, an apprenticeship or employment, they leave Wrenn with our warmest congratulations and very best wishes.”

This year’s results follow the opening of Wrenn’s new dedicated Sixth Form building during the 2025/26 academic year. The facility provides students with a dedicated and inspiring environment for quiet study, independent learning and preparation for their next steps.

The celebrations also come after Wrenn was named Secondary School of the Year at the most recent Northamptonshire Education Awards.

Nicole McCartney, Chief Executive Officer of Creative Education Trust, said: “Huge congratulations to all our Year 13 students. We are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved and of the determination, ambition and resilience they have shown throughout their studies.

“These results represent far more than grades. They reflect the hard work of our students, the support of their families and the dedication of the staff who have encouraged and challenged them every step of the way.

“Whether students are progressing to university, apprenticeships, further training or employment, we wish them every success for the future. They leave us with skills, confidence and experiences that will help them fulfil their ambitions and make a positive contribution to their communities.”

Wrenn School congratulates every member of the Class of 2026 and looks forward to following the students’ progress as they begin the next chapter of their lives.