GCSE success for Bakewell 13-year-olds

Alexander Stansfield and George Whawell studied Latin at S. Anselm’s School, which in September will open a college offering GCSE education for 14 to 16-year-olds.

Classmate Thomas Wright, 13, from Loughborough, gained an A*, while Natalie Gaunt, of Grindleford, who was only aged 12 when she sat the exam, also gained an A grade.

Latin teacher Hugh Price praised the “brilliant, hard-working children”, adding: “Latin is a difficult subject and they have gained GCSE success three years ahead of normal schedule.”

Founded in 1888, S. Anselm’s currently caters for boys and girls aged two to 13, but will extend their reach to 14 to 16-year-olds in September when it launches its college to offer GCSE education.

“S. Anselm’s College is an exciting new venture,” said headmaster Peter Phillips. “We aim to give local students a first-class, all-round experience.

“This year’s four GCSE Latin candidates from our Year 8 were a pilot project and their success bodes well for the future of the college, and the school as a whole.”