STUDENTS, parents and staff at Westleigh High School are celebrating following a rise in the number of top GCSE grades achieved.

The percentage of students gaining five or more A* to C grades including English and maths increased, as did the new Progress 8 measures which see schools judged on the progress that each pupil makes and how the school has added value to their education rather than individual grade.

Head teacher Carlton Bramwell said: “Students, staff and parents have been rewarded for their huge commitment and hard work over the past two years, which has resulted in such wonderful outcomes.”

Among the high achievers were Joe Lucas, who earned 10A* and three A grades; Toni Inman, who achieved an A*, seven As and three Bs; Robert Cooney, who secured seven As and four Bs; and Lucy Maloney, who bagged an A*, five As and five Bs.

Mr Bramwell added: “The most pleasing aspect of this is knowing that our students leave us with all continued study and career options available to them having studied a broad and balanced curriculum which is highly regarded both by those in education and industry.”