HEATHCOTE School in Stevenage achieved a 97 per cent pass rate – a 15 per cent increase on last year s results. Headteacher Edward Gaynor said: We are proud of the students achievements and very pleased for them. It is good to see our results go up bu

HEATHCOTE School in Stevenage achieved a 97 per cent pass rate - a 15 per cent increase on last year's results.

Headteacher Edward Gaynor said: "We are proud of the students' achievements and very pleased for them. It is good to see our results go up but this is really about individual achievement as a result of hard work and commitment.

"A number of the students I spoke to reflected on the importance of doing your best and being determined. This excellent attitude will stand them in good stead for whatever they go on to do in higher education or employment."

Matthew Barton achieved A grades in maths, further maths and physics and a B in biology. Matthew will be going to King's College, London to study maths. He said: "You can get fantastic grades - and can go anywhere - if you have the drive and determination."

Former head girl Gemma Martin, who achieved Bs in biology and maths and a C in chemistry, said that she was "amazed" at her results.

Gemma, who has a place at Nottingham Trent University to study bio-medical science, said: "It just shows that hard work pays off."

Post 16 director Nick Monk said: 'I am particularly pleased with this year's results. They have been a tremendous sixth form who have always shown the promise that has been confirmed by these results.'