Strong Results, Bright Futures: Shrewsbury Leavers Go Global

Well done to our Upper Sixth leavers of 2025, who today received a fantastic set of A Level results, with most securing top grades.

Their determination, talent, and commitment have earned them places at leading universities around the world, and we are delighted to celebrate their success.

Over 85% of the Class of 2025 have secured their first-choice university, a testament to their focus and determination. This remarkable achievement caps an extraordinary year of progression to leading destinations. An outstanding 70% of pupils are progressing to places at prestigious Russell Group universities with popular destinations including Exeter, UCL and Durham, though the adventurous nature of the Salopian will see them go onto universities in all parts of the UK and beyond. 

Eight Salopians have secured places at universities in North America where the ethos mirrors our whole person education.  Tara L, Mollie P and Jack K have secured sports scholarships for rowing and track, alongside a healthy number of Salopian athletes competing in the NCAA.  Fin C has already begun his adventures in the prestigious Robertson Scholarship at the University of North Carolina and Duke University, where he joins the growing community of former pupils studying across USA and Canada.

Fin C, studying at the University of North Carolina and Duke University, says:

“Being awarded a place on the Robertson Scholarship Programme is an immense privilege. The support and guidance I received from Shrewsbury teachers and the Futures Department throughout the application and interview process was phenomenal – I couldn’t have done it without them.

“At Shrewsbury, you’re given the opportunity to flourish in whatever way you choose. The teachers and house staff are always there to help you pursue excellence in the areas that inspire you most.”

Sophia C, progressing to Exeter University, to study Biological Sciences following a gap year, comments:

“There is no better place than Shrewsbury in terms of keeping busy – there is so much on offer. I feel I have truly developed as a person since coming here, becoming more empathetic, and growing my communication and listening skills through the many responsibilities I’ve taken on in the Sixth Form. I now feel confident to take on my gap year working in New Zealand and travelling in South America, before progressing to Exeter University to study Biological Sciences.

“Everyone is so welcoming and supportive at Shrewsbury, and I have been so happy here. I feel ready for my next steps and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Michael L, who is progressing to Cambridge University, Corpus Christi College, to study Natural Sciences, adds:

“Shrewsbury has given me the time and freedom to study independently, which has allowed me to explore topics I enjoy in greater depth and refine my academic work. I have particularly valued the outstanding extension opportunities available, such as Olympiad Maths, which challenged me to think more deeply and develop my problem-solving skills. I genuinely loved all my subjects – maths and further maths sharpen my thinking, while chemistry and physics have taught me to ‘always ask why’ and to apply theoretical knowledge to real life.

“I’ve come to see how these disciplines connect, forming a ‘net’ of knowledge that helps me understand the world in a more logical and joined-up way. This approach has inspired me to uncover how the world works and to use the principles of physics, biology, chemistry and maths to create something that can benefit people everywhere. The combination of academic challenge, support, and opportunity at Shrewsbury has had a profound impact on the way I think and the ambitions I now hold.”

Leo Winkley, Shrewsbury School Headmaster, comments: 

“Our Upper Sixth leavers of 2025 have achieved an outstanding set of A Level results, with the overwhelming majority securing their first-choice destination. We are delighted that so many pupils will be progressing to Russell Group universities, with others heading to world-class institutions in North America, Europe, Australia, Japan and beyond.

“These successes reflect not only the academic strength of our pupils, but also their curiosity, creativity and determination – qualities nurtured through a Shrewsbury education that is Serious Fun. Our Higher Education and Futures Team, alongside our outstanding teaching, pastoral, co-curricular and support staff, have provided expert guidance and unwavering encouragement at every stage, true to our whole person education ethos.

“We are immensely proud of our leavers and send them forward with confidence, excitement and our warmest good wishes as they begin the next chapter of their journeys, carrying the Salopian experiences, friendships and values they will keep for life.”

This year has seen Shrewsbury pupils excel across academic, sporting, and creative fields – from winning gold in the British Physics Olympiad, national design and economics competitions, to success in the Global Harvard Politics competition. Salopians reached the finals of the John Locke Institute Essay Competition, triumphed in Winchester College’s AI Beat the Machine challenge, and on the sports field our Boys’ 1st XI Football team reached their fourth national final in three years. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival also saw another Shrewsbury smash hit – our 12th original production – reinforcing our reputation for excellence across all areas of school life.

Shrewsbury’s achievements have earned major recognition, including the Oppidan Mentoring Gold Award and listings in Spear’s Magazine as one of the “World’s Top 100 Private Schools” and “The 25 Best UK Senior Schools” for both 2024 and 2025. We also featured in Time Out’s 2024 list of “40 British Schools – Best on the Planet,” were shortlisted for Boarding School of the Year 2025 and named among the winners of the Edtech 50 Awards for Innovation in AI and Digital Learning.

Our pupils’ achievements and worldwide destinations highlight both the academic strength of our pupils and the breadth of opportunities a Shrewsbury education provides. We are proud of the Class of 2025 and look forward to seeing them flourish as they progress confidently into the opportunities ahead.