The principal of a Blackburn school spoke of the "phenomenal achievement" of GCSE pupils.

Westholme School achieved strong results following success in last week’s A Level results.

Principal Dr Richard Robson has said: “Today’s GCSE success is testament to the true Westholme spirit.

“A remarkable 81 per cent achieved grade 7s and above - this is a phenomenal achievement right across the whole year group.

"I am so proud of each and every student, how they have navigated the pandemic and applied themselves so diligently to prepare for public examinations.”

Dr Robson, head of the independent school, also commented it was a “tremendous day for everyone at Westholme".

He continued: "We celebrate outstanding attainment against a national backdrop of reduced top grades and a return to pre-pandemic levels.”

Some of the successes included Ethan Coleman who achieved three grade 9s and five grade 8s. Ethan has also been balancing his studies with swimming five times a week for Blackburn Centurions. 

He said: “I’ve worked really hard over the past two years and I’m so pleased with my results – it’s a relief to finally find out." 

Hannah Edge achieved seven grade 9s in her GCSEs; she goes on to study Mandarin, Spanish and business studies.

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Maggie Pearson achieved three grade 9s and five grade 8s, whilst Freya Milligan achieved six grade 9s. Freya has dreams of pursuing a career as either a journalist or a novelist.

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Dr Robson added: “Our inspirational teachers know all students individually and how hard they have worked throughout a combination of home learning and face-to-face lessons in the classroom.

"I would like to thank all our terrific teaching staff for their dedication during turbulent times and ensuring all students had every opportunity to excel with continued personalised 1:1 support.”

Most Year 11s will progress straight onto Westholme’s 'Inspired Sixth Form'.

Mr Cornwall and Miss Parkinson, Heads of Year 11, said: “Year 11 should be immensely proud of the efforts they have put in and the results they have received. Congratulations to everyone on your results and thank you for your contribution to school life."