STUDENTS at Abbey Gate College exceeded expectations with a rise in the pass rate at GCSE.

This is despite national concerns about the increase in difficulty in the new style exams.

Teachers said there was an air of excitement from pupils as subject choices for A-level were discussed in light of their strong GCSE results.

An impressive 93 per cent of results were A* to C/Grades 9-4 with 48 per cent of students gaining Grades 9-7 in science subjects.

Amongst the highest achievers were Francesca Conyers, Oliver Hall, Alexandra Haslam, Alfie Macdonald-Brown and Sam Mason who gained A* or 9 in one or more subjects.

Headteacher Tracy Pollard said: "These results are a fantastic finale to our 40th birthday celebrations.

"The pupils have worked hard and have shown determination and resilience in the face of some very challenging new courses. I am delighted that our focus on bringing out the best in each individual pupil has been rewarded with these fantastic grades.

"The support and dedication of the staff is second to none which has allowed our pupils to fulfil their academic and personal potential.”