Video: Top GCSEs for proud students

There was special reason for celebration at Samuel Whitbread Academy in Clifton as the school achieved its best ever results.

Principal Rob Robson congratulated students after the school announced a 65 per cent A* to C rate – up four per cent from last year.

He said: “There was some pressure coming into this year as there had been claims that the exams had become too easy and that marking was to become more stringent as a result, so we’re very proud to have done so well.”

High-flying students included Shahana Sokhi, 16, who achieved 10 A*s and an A and Helena Salzen, 16, who gained two A*s and seven As.

Helena said: “I am so pleased as I wasn’t sure how well I was going to do.

“I’m going to stay at the school for my A-levels and study maths, chemistry, biology and geography – science is definitely my strong point!”

Shahana is also staying at the school for her sixth form and will take A-levels in maths, further maths, physics and chemistry.

Rob Watson, headteacher at Stratton Upper School, was extremely happy with the school’s 52 per cent A to C pass rate.

The school’s pass rate remained the same as last year’s GCSE results.

He said: “We are pleased to have held our own in the national context of grades.

“It has been a year group that have worked hard particularly through Year 11 and they are a credit to the school.”

Among the top performers was Martha Homfray-Cooper, who achieved nine A*s and two As.

She said: “I am very pleased with my results. I spent a lot of time working and revising for my exams and I am just thankful that it all paid off.”

Another high flier was Huw Jones who achieved five A*s, four As, two Bs and a merit in ICT.

Both students plan on completing their A-levels at Stratton Upper.

There were also smiles all round at Sandy Upper School, which also celebrated its best ever results.

Some 53 per cent of students achieved five A*to C grades including maths and English, while 71 per cent of achieved five A* to C grades overall.

Gursimar Dhillon wowed teachers with 11 A*s, one A and one B while Clara Zwetsloot achieved 10 A*s and three As.

Hazel Childs gained nine A*s and three As while Jay Thomas achieved seven A*s and six As.

Chairman of governors Richard Banks said: “I am absolutely delighted with this fantastic outcome for Sandy.

“Our students should be very proud of their achievements as we are thrilled with all they have attained.

“This year’s success marks a great new beginning for our school as we partner with the Barnfield Federation to bring the very best opportunities for students and staff.”