Thomas Alleyne school in Stevenage had a record year for A*-C GCSE passes with 56 per cent of students (86 out of 154) achieving five A*-C results, up from 48 per cent last year. In maths and English just over 40 per cent achieved A*-C grades. High achi

Thomas Alleyne school in Stevenage had a record year for A*-C GCSE passes with 56 per cent of students (86 out of 154) achieving five A*-C results, up from 48 per cent last year.

In maths and English just over 40 per cent achieved A*-C grades.

High achievers included 10 pupils who were awarded five or more grade As including Charlie Bannister who achieved eight grade As including two A*s, Charlotte Elmore who got nine As including two A*s and Claire Robinson who was awarded nine A grades including three A*s.

Headteacher Jonathan Block said: "We're really chuffed. When I arrived four years ago we wanted to improve step by step. There are courses we could provide that rocket up the results but we wanted to provide a solid platform of GCSEs.

"We've wonderful kids who've done brilliantly - but it's not just about them, it's all the kids doing as well as they can.