A RECORD year is being enjoyed at Castell Alun after this year’s GCSE results were announced.

The Hope school has achieved the best set of results in its history, with 75per cent of year 11 students gaining higher grade GCSE passes in English, Maths and at least three other subject.

More than 80per cent of all results were achieved at grade C or higher.

Outstanding performances included Stephanie Balchin, who collected with four A*s and five As, and Hannah Evans, who gained three A*s, five As and a B.

Isabelle Markey achieved great marks, as she obtained six A*s, two As and a B.
Oliver Brennan, Matthew Jones and Rhys Young all gained three A*s, along with a considerable number of higher grade passes.

Amy Shone showed real consistency with straight A* and A grades, and Phillip Evans gained four A*s as part of his 10 higher grade passes.

A number of high flying students also celebrated success in the newly introduced GCSE Astronomy course, adding an extra qualification to already impressive performances.

James May was in top gear, gaining an A* in Astronomy along with eight other A*’s, an A, and a Distinction in his OCR National ICT qualification.

Bethanie Shalish also achieved one of her five A*’s in Astronomy, along with a clutch of other higher grades, while Lydia Redhead added four A*s and five As to her A grade pass in Astronomy.

David Mountfod, headteacher, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the results our students have achieved this year. Without exception, they have fulfilled their potential and we are thrilled for each and every one of them.

“We get excellent support from parents, and the willingness of every member of staff at Castell Alun to go the extra mile is also reflected in these outcomes”

Also praising the students was David Croasdale, student development manager for the year 11 cohort.

He said: “Based on all their hard work, students thoroughly deserve these fantastic grades. We wish them all well and it’s great that the majority will be back in
September to join our flourishing sixth form.”