PUPILS in West Somerset were receiving their GCSE results on Thursday (August 21) with a record-breaking number of top grades.

Each pupil of West Somerset College, Minehead, averaged a third of a grade higher in every subject when compared to last year.

Year 11 achieved 50 grade nines, 62 grade eights, 85 grade sevens, and 175 grade sixes, an increase of 85 more top grades than last year.

Headteacher Zoe Stucki said: “This has been a superb year for year 11, and we congratulate every single student on their success.

“We look forward to welcoming many of you back in September as you begin your journey into year 12.”

Some outstanding achievements included seven grade nines, two grade eights, and a distinction star for Erin Strong, seven grade nines, an eight, and two sevens for Kate Lancaster, three nines, two eights, and four sevens for Emily Johnson, while Abigail Ford achieved thee nines, three eights, three sevens, and a grade six, and Mabel Green obtained a nine and five eights plus a distinction star.

Ms Stucki said: “Students have shown remarkable dedication and resilience, and we are immensely proud of their achievements.

“We thank parents and carers for their continued support, working alongside our staff to help students reach their potential.”

Wiveliscombe’s Kingsmead School saw one pupil achieve seven grade nines and three grade eights, while another obtained six grade nines and three grade eights.

Headteacher John Eddy said: “We continue to see our results improve across a wide range of measures.

“This was an exceptional year group who consistently worked hard for their success.

“They took all the opportunities offered by a dedicated group of teachers to ensure they were well prepared for the exams.

“We are also delighted our students with educational needs also did really well, securing our best results for six years.”