Once again this year, Backwell students have achieved the best GCSE results in the area, with 77 per cent of our boys and girls gaining at least 5 grades A* - C.

And using the Government’s (and our) preferred new measure of success, 71 per cent gained 5 A*-C including the crucial Maths and English.

At A-level, no less than 24 students achieved at least three grade A passes, and 11 students gained at least four grade A passes.

Five students will be starting at Oxford or Cambridge next month, and other students gained places on highly competitive courses such as medicine.

Overall, nearly a third of all exam entries achieved a grade A pass, and 53 per cent were A or B passes.

These figures are higher than many selective or grammar schools, but Backwell is a comprehensive secondary school, serving all of its community.

We aim to provide challenging education to youngsters of all abilities and needs, preparing them for life in this fast changing 21st century.

Our children achieve not only excellent academic success, but they also take part in a wide, exciting range of new experiences, in and out of the classroom including theatrical, musical, artistic, technical, sporting, outdoor, or just plain fun.

Backwell School is a specialist performing and visual arts school, but a quick look at our exam results year on year shows that our students achieve all-round excellence, from the core subjects to vocational courses and practical experience in the work place and local community.

I believe that every individual has different skills and potential, and that his or her success must be valued, wherever it may occur.

For once in my life I agree completely with the Government slogan: “Every Child Matters”.

At Backwell, every child does matter. No young person should miss out on a successful, rewarding and happy time at school.

We expect a lot from our students too. We expect them to work hard, play hard, and behave well. Our key word is respect: self-respect, respect for other people, and respect for the environment are the foundations of all we do.

Finally, there is a crucial third part of the equation – you the parents. We want to work with you in helping your child succeed.

For more information, please contact the school at Backwell, Bristol BS48 3BX, call 01275 463371, email mailbox@backwellschool.net or log on to www.backwellschool.net.