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A Dane Court student studying Geography as part of her International Baccalaureate Diploma has been recognised for the exceptionally high standard of her GCSE studies in the same subject over the last two years.
The Awards for Excellence in Geographical Learning are presented annually by the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) to the students who have achieved the highest marks nationally in the geography examinations.

They celebrate the hard work and success of students’ achievements in GCSE, IGCSE, Certificate in Geography, A Level, Pre-U and International Baccalaureate geography examinations each year. Students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales are eligible for these awards. Olivia was one of only 20 GCSE students to receive the award this year.

Steve Brace, Head of Education and Outdoor Learning at the RGS, said: “These pupils have done exceptionally well, which reflects well on their abilities as young geographers and also the commitment of their geography teachers.”
It is always appreciated by students, parents and schools when the highest examination achievements are rewarded, and to have that achievement recognised by the national learned society for the subject elevates it further still.
Olivia said: “Geography was a favourite subject at GCSE, I particularly enjoyed the fieldwork and coursework element. It was my teachers, Mr Hutchings and Mr Spillett, who made it really fun and enjoyable to learn and brought the subject to life.”
Mark Hutchings is Head of Geography at Dane Court. He said: “Olivia is an extremely hard working young lady and a pleasure to teach, as well as being an excellent Geographer. She is currently studying IB Geography at higher level and is on course again to achieve top marks. Olivia is aiming to go to university after the Sixth form and hopes to study to become a vet.”
Headteacher Andrew Fowler added: “I am delighted that the Royal Geographical Association has recognised Olivia's success with its award. Olivia has been an outstanding student at Dane Court, and her success is well-deserved. It is also a pleasure for Olivia's Geography enthusiastic teachers, who work very hard to encourage a love of the subject in their students, to see them flourish and achieve great results."

from left:  Mr Spillett (Geography teacher), Olivia Button (student),
Mr Hutchings (head of Geography) and Mr Fowler (headteacher)