New Zaha Hadid building leads to record-breaking A Level results at Berkhamsted

Berkhamsted Sixth have celebrated another remarkable year of A Level results. In their 2026 A Level Examinations, nearly a quarter of entries were awarded A* (23%), over half were awarded between an A* and A (57.5%), and 83.4% of entries were awarded A*-B. This is not only an increase from our 2025 results, but a set of marks that match our highest on record from 2020. This outstanding achievement has been proudly celebrated this morning amongst students, parents and staff alike, and reflects the inspiring academic culture at Berkhamsted Sixth.

Alongside these outstanding results, 112 students took an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in addition to their A Levels, with 88% achieving A*- A.

All seven successful Oxbridge candidates have received their places, in Mathematics, Classics, Biomedical Science, Ancient and Modern History, English Literature, Chemistry and Geography. Many more have received top Russell Group university spots, including the University of Warwick, Imperial College London and Edinburgh University. We celebrated several specialist university spots: two students go on to the Royal Veterinary College, another has received a football scholarship to Thomas College, Maine, and another who will train to become one of the prestigious Norland Nannies at Norland College. Degree apprenticeship applications also proved successful, with student Alesha going on to undertake an apprenticeship with London law firm Winston Taylor LLP.

“I’m really happy- I can’t quite believe it if I’m honest!,” commented Emma, who is off to study Medicine, following a Gap Year. “All the hard work from me and my teachers has paid off!”

As families gathered in the Zaha Hadid Sixth Form over refreshments, we reflected on the impact this building has made on the first cohort to spend over a year inside. “I started staying after school to work, and I think that that opportunity, working with a group of people to study really helps you,” commented one student. It’s clear that Berkhamsted’s academic culture has seen a shift: as more students decided to come in early or stay late, visit over holidays for supervised study or work together in study leave, the building has proved itself an integral part of the Berkhamsted Sixth journey. “I just think the environment is unbelievable,” commented student Sophie T.

However, students haven’t just benefitted academically from life at Berkhamsted Sixth. Through Leadership, Service, and Co-curricular involvement, they have developed the confidence, resilience and perspective needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

“I have loved being involved in CCF and Outdoor Ed.” shared Gaby, who secured the grades she needed to study Combined Honours in Social Sciences at Durham University. “It’s really those opportunities that weren’t part of the academic curriculum that shaped this school into what it is”

“She has really flourished,” her mum agreed.

The breadth of experiences is reinforced by Berkhamsted’s established character education programme as we seek to develop remarkable people, by providing students a framework with which to reflect on their growth, understand their values and recognise the impact they can have on others.

These outstanding results demonstrate not only the strength of our academic culture, but what makes a remarkable Berkhamstedian. Intrinsic to a Berkhamsted education is a commitment to character, leadership and personal growth that benefits students long after they leave the School. These results are just the first step in what comes next for this exceptional group of students.  Congratulations to our cohort of 2026!

To take a closer look at Berkhamsted Sixth, book to attend one of our upcoming open events.

Monday 21 September : Life at Berkhamsted Sixth Evening

Wednesday 14 October : Subjects at Berkhamsted Sixth

Receiving your GCSE Results next week and re-considering your choice of Sixth Form? Attend our Mini Clearing on Thursday 20 August to see if there’s a spot for you at Berkhamsted Sixth.