The Tables also show two time series in the form of bar charts which show how the GCSE (and equivalent) results for pupils in each school have changed since 2003, allowing you to compare the results for a school over the past four years. However, unlike the data used to calculate the main attainment measures shown in the Tables, which relate to pupils at the end of KS4, the data used for the time series is based on the achievements of all pupils on roll at the school who were in their last year of compulsory schooling aged 15. This may include pupils who have not yet taken any exams as they have not reached the end of KS4 studies. The bar charts show, for each of the years 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the percentage of 15 year olds who achieved:
- five or more GCSE (and equivalent) grades A*-C including GCSEs in both English and maths; and
- five or more GCSE (and equivalent) grades A*-C.
What the year on year comparisons tell you
| From the bar charts, you can see the history of a school's results, and whether they have stayed at the same level over time. Because each year group is made up of different pupils, with different prior attainment and other characteristics, results may fluctuate from year to year for reasons to do with the pupils rather than the school. Small fluctuations from year to year are unlikely to be significant, particularly if the school's year group is small. |
The year on year comparisons data for 2006 include all the results achieved by pupils in their last year of compulsory schooling, even if some or all of those results were obtained in earlier years. Early-taken results are credited to the school where the pupil is on roll at the time of statutory school-leaving age. However, where pupils have achieved five or more grades A*-C GCSEs,(and equivalent) early and then moved to a different school, the results are credited in the year on year comparison to the previous school as well. This is so that schools receive credit for results they have helped pupils achieve early.
Take care when comparing the results of a school in 2004, 2005 and 2006 with those in previous years. The 2004, 2005 and 2006 results will not necessarily be fully comparable with those of 2003, because of the inclusion of a wider range of qualifications in the Tables from 2004.
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