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Michaela Community School Hits 70% A or A*

8/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Katharine Birbalsingh reported that almost 70% of Michaela Community School pupils earned A or A* grades, double the national 28.5% average.
A third of entries earned A* grades, with 10% achieving all A* grades and two students securing Oxbridge places.
Education Secretary Lucy Powell said forcing schools to prioritize academics lets down disadvantaged pupils, a claim the school’s results appear to refute.

History

Historical Context

In 1988 the Education Reform Act introduced England’s National Curriculum and the first GCSEs, establishing core statutory tests for English, maths and science. Assessments expanded in 1991-1995, were trimmed in 2008, and the 9-1 grading system replaced letter grades in 2017. Today Michaela Community School’s high A*/9 results draw criticism from Education Secretary Lucy Powell, echoing long-standing debates over rigor versus equity.

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Story summary

Katharine Birbalsingh reported that almost 70% of Michaela Community School pupils earned A or A* grades, double the national 28.5% average.
A third of entries earned A* grades, with 10% achieving all A* grades and two students securing Oxbridge places.
Education Secretary Lucy Powell said forcing schools to prioritize academics lets down disadvantaged pupils, a claim the school’s results appear to refute.

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