PRINCESS Helena College students secured a 100 per cent pass rate, with nearly a third of all grades either an A or A*.

The Preston college, which also has an 88 per cent pass rate at A*-C, will see many of its pupils heading off to university.

Head girl Rachel Helman scored straight As in German, history and economics and is off to York University to study politics and international relations.

Another great success was Marina Lawrence Mahrra, who achieved an A* and two As, along with grade eights in singing, recorder and clarinet. She is planning to continue her studies in performing arts.

Other girls are going on to study law, mathematics and psychology, while some are looking forward to gap year adventures in Europe and beyond.

Headteacher Jo-Anne Duncan said: “Amongst the excellent headlines, there are many stories of individual girls who have been determined to achieve their very best results, and I am very proud of the way we support every girl in her ambitions.

“It is really pleasing to see girls who are passionate about their subjects continuing their studies at undergraduate level. Their destinations include the universities of Durham, Royal Holloway and Bedford, York, Kent and Manchester, as well as top art colleges and drama schools.”

The art department was also praised by Mrs Duncan. Its students achieved an impressive 100 per cent A* and A grades.