Character Education at Berkhamsted: The Foundation of Academic Success 

Today Berkhamsted is celebrating another remarkable cohort of students who have made the staff at Berkhamsted very proud. In their 2025 A Level examinations, 21.9% achieved the top grade of A* and 57.2% of students achieved A*-A grades – a continued increase on 2024 achievements, reflecting their self-motivation, resilience and ambition.  

We spoke to some of our students on A Level results day: 

“At Berkhamsted, I studied A Level History, Maths and Biology, and I managed to secure the grades I needed to study Law at Oxford. Applying to Oxford is certainly no easy task, but I do believe that Berkhamsted truly equips applicants with whatever resources they need to make a strong and successful application.”

Another student commented:

“I achieved an A* in Maths, and As in Physics and Computer Science. I also earned an A in AS Level Further Maths. I have secured a degree apprenticeship in Software Engineering with Goldman Sachs.”

“At Berkhamsted School, character development isn’t a side programme—it’s the foundation of everything. From the moment students join, they are immersed in a culture that prioritises personal growth, leadership, and resilience alongside academic achievement” stated Principal of Berkhamsted Schools Group, Richard Backhouse. 

Berkhamsted’s philosophy is built around the idea of “flourishing”—helping students fulfil their potential, find purpose, and build positive relationships. Part of this development through our Senior Schools and Sixth Form, is helping each individual to develop a strong character and learning behaviours to underpin excellent outcomes.   

Whilst our pupils’ academic achievements continue to excel, the school also ensures opportunities for pupils continue beyond the classroom in preparation for life beyond Sixth. Leadership is a key part of this journey. At Berkhamsted, it’s not reserved for a select few—it’s developed in every student. It is about personal growth and the opportunity for personal development and self-leadership in addition to traditional opportunities of leading others. Whether through House activities, the prefect system, or initiatives like the Student Consultancy Programme run by Oxford University, students are given real responsibility and the chance to grow. Leadership is seen as relational and transformative, not hierarchical, and is embedded in daily school life. 

Service and adventure also play a vital role. From volunteering in the community to participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Combined Cadet Force, students learn the value of teamwork, perseverance, and giving back. Outdoor education, debating, and entrepreneurship through Young Enterprise further develop confidence and character. 

“During my time at Berkhamsted, I completed the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, served as a Wellbeing Ambassador, and took on the role of Learning Leader. The variety of extra-curricular and super-curricular opportunities the school offered, helped me with my personal statement. Just two days after submitting my application, I secured an offer from Warwick University.” – A Level Student

All of this feeds directly into academic success. In the Sixth Form, the Harkness teaching method is transforming learning into collaborative, student-led enquiry, while ethical use of AI is taught to enhance creativity and critical thinking. All within our new Zaha Hadid building designed to be a transition between school and university or the workplace. These experiences and the environment they are in prepares our students not just for exams, but for life beyond school. 

Nick Cale, Headteacher of Berkhamsted Sixth, has reflected on the role the Berkhamsted tutor structure has played in the development of character. He remarked that “Each student is supported by a personal tutor who acts as their champion, guiding them through regular coaching sessions. This approach helps students reflect on their goals, build resilience, and stay focused on their academic and personal growth. I believe that this individual care and planning is what has helped our students to accomplish their personal best, and with 87% getting their first choice of university has seen this year’s cohort reach their goals.”  

“We’re all so happy on Results Day here at Berkhamsted. There’s celebration in the atmosphere and we’re all so proud of each other. I know we’re all going to go on to do amazing things.” – A Level Student

As Berkhamsted publishes our 2025 A Level results, the message is clear: academic excellence is the fruit of a deeply rooted character education. The school’s commitment to developing remarkable people ensures that students leave not only with outstanding qualifications, but with the values, skills, and mindset to make a meaningful impact in the world.