Year 13 students from Helston Community College overcame the challenges of tougher examinations this year and celebrated receiving their A level and BTEC results on Thursday.

Standards overall were similar to last year, with many students excelling at the highest level in their subjects, and 76 students achieved at least one A* grade or Distinction* grade, which is equivalent to approximately half of the year group.

Executive headteacher Donna Bryant said: "We are delighted that our students have experienced much success this year, and that their hard work and perseverance has paid off. We are really proud of their achievements and thrilled to see so many achieve their first choice university place."

The year 13 students are moving on to a diverse range of higher education courses, employment, further vocational training and apprenticeships. This year sees 87 students bound for university, pursuing studies in a wide range of fields, with 22 per cent destined for Russell Group universities. 

These include Sarah Ferris, A*, A*, A, who is heading to Leeds University to study chemical engineering, Nicola Peters A*, A*, A, who is studying English literature and creative writing at Warwick University, and Tom Slattery A*, A*, A, who will be studying mathematics at Cambridge or Warwick. 

The BTEC students have also performed exceptionally well: Ross Atkinson obtained four Distinction* grades, and there were a further eight students who attained three Distinction* grades. Apprenticeships are increasing in popularity, and several students have secured excellent placements, at companies such as Goonhilly and SERCO.

The head of college, Wayne Jenkins, said: "The numerous changes taking place in the examination system at this time have placed extra demands upon both students and staff this year. So it is very rewarding, to celebrate with our students as they secure the results they require to progress in their chosen field of study or career. We will continue to work with students over the next few weeks to help them finalise their future pathways. I would like to wish all our students the best of luck for the future.”