DESPITE the most gruelling GCSE examination season ever, students at The Catholic High School have come out on top and are proudly taking their results home.

Standards in English and maths are even higher than last year, when these two subjects were the first to adopt the new ‘9-1’ grades.

Head of year Dylan Green was the first to congratulate the students on their achievements. He said: "We are really proud of this year group.

"Despite the changes, the new specifications, the lack of past papers, and a relentless exam season, they have come through it all with credit.

"Whether they are heading for sixth form, apprenticeships or college courses I wish them all the best for the future."

The top achievers this year are Mac Alexander, with eight 7-9 grades (the equivalent of eight A or A* grades under the old system), including a 9 in his physics GCSE; Emma Bissell who has six 9 grades along with two 8s and a 7; Matthew Brayne (eight 7-9 grades); Sarah Dodd (four 9s and four 8s); Anastasia Doran (four 9s and five 8s); Nadim Haque (four 8s and four 7s); Elie Jones (five 8s and two 7s); Alice Nixon (four 9s, three 8s and two 7s); Thomas Preece (one 9, two 8s and three 7s); Sophie Tobin (one 9, one 8 and four 7s).

Talented linguist Jenni Allman was rewarded with a 9 grade in Spanish and an 8 in French.

Headteacher John Murray added: "The new grading system will take everyone time to get used to.

"The old A and A* grades have been divided into 7, 8 and 9 now. It means that the ‘9’ is effectively a double starred A.

"I’m delighted to see so many students achieved this. Across the whole year group we have seen what can be achieved through hard work and support from great teachers."

Jane Johnson, chair of Governors, added: "I am proud of these young people and the staff who have worked so hard with them. I am sure they will go on to great things in life, founded on the support of their families and what they have learnt here. Well done."