News20th April 2026

Ark tops the table at Key Stage 5

New data from the Department for Education reveals that Ark is the highest‑performing large academy trust for Key Stage 5 progress and attainment in both A Levels and BTECs.

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Students celebrating A level results at Ark Academy in 2025

The figures also show that Ark is now the top performing trust of any size for BTECs, with an average progress score of +0.55.

A record 87 percent of Ark BTEC students achieved DDM+ last summer (14 percentage points higher than the previous year) and the same number have gone on to university. Two-thirds (65 percent) secured a place at a prestigious top third institution – six times the national average.

Overall, 85 percent of Ark’s Year 13 students went directly to university, more than twice the national average in 2024 (37 percent). Those from less advantaged backgrounds were six times more likely to go on to a top third university than their peers nationally.

The KS5 performance data follows another strong set of results for both KS2 and KS4. Ark remains one of the top multi-academy trusts in the country for primary outcomes, and GCSE results continue to improve year on year.

Ark Director of Education Jerry Collins said, “This is a remarkable achievement – and a huge credit to our sixth form teams across the network for all they do to ensure our students are set up for success.

“At Ark, we believe every child has the potential to thrive, regardless of their background. These results show what is possible through great teaching, meaningful development and a shared commitment to our mission.”