A South London state school where pupils take an International Baccalaureate alongside their A-Levels has been named one of the best in Britain. Ashcroft Technology Academy in Putney has been praised for the high number of pupils which are granted places at Russell Group universities in the UK and prestigious universities in the US and Europe.
Its sixth form programme was awarded International Baccalaureate state school of the year by The Sunday Times. Many universities view the IB diploma as better preparation for both study and the workplace.
This factor, alongside better international recognition, is why many schools are focusing more on the IB diploma to give their pupils an advantage for entering higher education. The IB offers a broader education than A-Levels. It requires students to take six subjects: mathematics, sciences, individuals and societies (humanities), language and literature, language acquisition (second language), and arts. Students must also complete a Theory of Knowledge course, write a 4,000-word research essay, and participate in creativity, activity, and service projects.
Aschroft Techonology Academy in Putney
(Image: Google)
At Ashcroft Technology Academy, the average IB diploma pupil receives 38 points. This is 12 points higher than the amount needed to pass. The Sunday Times says these excellent results are partly behind changes made to help pupils, such as a live tracking system which has a database of university offer rates and typical grade requirements.
Responding to the award, a statement on the school website reads: “The International Baccalaureate programme at the Academy is designed to develop well-rounded, globally minded students, and it therefore provides a balance between rigorous academic study with creativity, critical thinking, and community service.
“The Sixth Form offers both the International Baccalaureate Diploma and A-Level courses, welcoming students from across London and the Home Counties. In 2024, over 50% of all grades achieved across both A-Level and the International Baccalaureate Diploma were graded A/A* or 6/7.”
The Sunday Times list of the best schools in the UK, eight of the top 10 are situated in London. St Paul’s Girls School took the top spot, followed by St Paul’s School (both in Westminster) and Brighton College.
In 10th place, The Henrietta Barnett School in Hampstead is the highest ranked state school in the UK. Other highly ranked state schools in London are Queen Elizabeth’s School in Barnet and Wilson’s School in Wallington.
All three of these institutions are selective.
Stay updated on the top South London stories. Sign up to our MySouthLondon newsletter HERE for the latest daily news and more.