Pupils 'reach for the stars' at Hunstanton school

Among the many celebrating exam successes at Springwood High this year are a group of genuine ‘star students’.

Seven GCSE Astronomy students attained impressive results in their subject, with one receiving an ‘out-of-this-world’ Grade 9.

High-achieving Grace Dickson is only the second student at the school, post-Covid, to be awarded a 9, while her classmates also did exceptionally well. Antoni Ostasz, Cherry Yu, Methumless Kulasinge, and Hui Yu all achieved Grade 8s; while Jack Higgins received a 7; and Nyasha Tarungamiswa gained a Grade 5.

“I really enjoyed GCSE Astronomy,” says Methumlee, “It has given me valuable skills and confidence that will help me with the rest of my GCSEs. It was tough at times, but with support from my wonderful teachers, and a lot of hard work, I achieved more than I thought was possible. Overall, it was a brilliant experience.”

“I found doing the Astronomy GCSE a great way of exploring a subject I am very interested in,” adds Jack, “It is also a great thing to have when applying for Oxford and Cambridge, as it makes you stand out.”

“It gives all students the chance to learn to appreciate some of the most interesting phenomena out there, like eclipses, comets, the seasons, and why the sky looks different from other places on the Earth,” says Garry Angus, Physics Teacher at Springwood.

Dr Angus adds, “Their incredible grades are a testament to their hard work and dedication to comprehend an immensely complicated series of topics.”  The course is taught alongside Springwood’s Head of Physics, Matt Adcock.  

“I am forever grateful to have had the opportunity to study GCSE Astronomy,” adds students Hui, “It has opened my eyes to the universe we live in – learning about stars, galaxies, and cosmology has been very interesting and insightful."

Adding, "I would like to thank Mr Adcock and Dr Angus for the support and guidance they have provided in every step of the journey.”