Four students at St Josephs in Horwich were celebrating after achieving nine of more GCSE passes at grade nine.

After two years of challenges and adversity, living with the pandemic these achievements are all the more noteworthy.

School bosses were celebrating the hard work and determination that enabled four students to achieve nine or more GCSE passes at grade 9 and many others who have achieved eight grade 9s and a grade 8. 

As well as congratulating those who achieved the top grades, the school also congratulate those who have made noteworthy progress during their time at St Joseph’s and through their grit and determined hard work achieved on average two grades higher across all subjects than their target grades.

Headteacher Tony McCabe said: “We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of our young people, not just those who achieved the highest grades but also those who struggled on the journey yet have achieved above and beyond what they ever thought was possible, opening up doors of opportunity as they take the next step in their lives.”

Mr McCabe added: “The achievements of this cohort are extraordinary especially considering the unprecedented challenges they faced with large groups of staff and students isolating and learning remotely when the Covid rates in Bolton were at their highest.

"I think back to the long days as we adjusted the curriculum and our Year 11 showed great determination in finding new ways of learning. I am delighted that the hard work paid off and it was all worth it in the end.

"We pay tribute to the staff who journeyed alongside our young people, and we thank the supportive parents and carers who worked with us to help each young person achieve at their best”

As a cohort 77per cent of the students achieve a grade 4+ in both English and maths with 60% achieving a higher pass grade in the Basics.

The community will be watching the school’s Facebook page as the success stories and celebrations unfold throughout the day.