NEARLY half of all students at Barnwell School got at least five A*-C grades including English and maths – an improvement on last year.

The Stevenage school also saw 79 per cent of its 225 students get five or more A*-C grades excluding English and maths, and 80 per cent of students got two science GCSEs.

There was also BTEC success, with many students getting distinctions, and others excelling in the English Baccalaureate.

Acting headteacher Tony Fitzpatrick said: “We are delighted that the percentage of students gaining A*-C has increased yet again, marking another record for the school. The percentage of students gaining the English Baccalaureate continues its upward trend again this year.

“Contrary to national headlines regarding the reduction in the pass rate of GCSEs, Barnwell is proud that there have been some significant personal and subject achievements.

“I would like to personally thank the hard work and determination of not just the students but of the staff and the parents and carers.”

Notable successes included Leanne Flowers and Alice Wren who both got 11 A* and A grades, Megan Skipp who got nine A* and A grades and two BTEC distinctions, and Chris Jones who got seven A* and A grades and five BTEC distinctions.