GSCE results show council-run schools outperform free schools
The figures found that the average local authority maintained school had 55 per cent of pupils achieving 5+ A*-C grades in GCSEs, while free schools had 50.5 per cent of pupils achieving the same result.
The data also shows that converted academies, which were high performing schools, upgraded into academy status had 63 per cent of pupils achieving 5 +A*-C grades.
Schools minister Nick Gibb said: “Converter academies are leading the way in strong academic standards and over time we will see the excellence and expertise of strong sponsors spread.
“As well as raising standards, our plan for education is ensuring more pupils leave school with the qualifications which we know will give them the best possible chance to achieve their full potential."
Latest News
17/04/2026 - 10:24
The government is inviting EdTech companies and AI labs to develop AI tutoring tools, in collaboration with teachers, to ensure they support classroom practice.
17/04/2026 - 09:53
The government has rolled out new guidance and practical advice to help families get children ready for school
16/04/2026 - 12:03
Job adverts for secondary school teaching roles have dropped to their lowest level in nine years, raising fresh concerns about teacher recruitment in England.
16/04/2026 - 10:42
Ofqual has fined Cambridge OCR £270,000 for errors relating to A and AS Level physics exam papers in summer 2025.
15/04/2026 - 09:37
The government has announced the locations of 19 new Technical Excellence Colleges, backed by £175 million investment in skills training in priority areas.
