STUDENTS at Abbey Gate College in Chester recorded an impressive set of GCSE grades this year despite new tougher exams.

A total of 93 per cent of results were Grades 9-4, with over half of pupils gaining 9 or 8 in one or more subjects.

Over a third of results were given a top grade (9-7), well above the national average of 20.8 per cent.

Excellent results were achieved in a wide range of subjects, including Art which saw 76 per cent achieve 9-7.

Outstanding achievements by pupils include Charlie Bromley-Davenport and Henry Smith who gained 9-7 in all of their chosen subjects.

Fantastic results, including elite Grade 9s, were also achieved by Charlie Cheadle who gained four 9s, Jack Tomlins who obtained three 9s and Mimi Jayaram who gained two 9s.

Following their strong GCSE results, excited pupils were busy finalising their A-level subject choices, keen to emulate the recent success of the sixth form students.

Headmistress Tracy Pollard said: "Congratulations to all of our Year 11 pupils, their hard work and dedication has paid off and been rewarded with these fantastic grades. Our aim is for all our pupils, through the support of dedicated staff, to reach their academic and personal potential and these pupils should be extremely proud of their achievements."