A-level results at Hardenhuish School, Chippenham are being described as the best ever.

Headteacher Jan Hatherell said: “The A-level results have exceeded our best ever with a pass rate of 99.8%, including 58% of grades A*-B - 9.5% of grades were at A* with 25.6% at A* and A.

“Although these percentages do not quite match the school’s highest performance at the top grades they are a fantastic achievement in the year when the January season has been removed, so all the young people have completed their A-levels with all the exams in the summer season.

“However I am sure that this will be well above the national average, as it is reported that the number of top grades has fallen nationwide.

"Our students should also be congratulated on achieving the School’s record average total UCAS points score of 365, which together with the high number of top grades has secured places for many students at the most prestigious Russell Group universities.

“This reflects the strength of the Hardenhuish community of students and teachers, supported by the students’ parents, working hard and effectively together over many years, with effective information, advice and guidance.

"One of the significant factors is the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ, counts as 0.3 of an A level), which many top universities are using as a discriminator between students.

"Many of our Y13 take this and all have been successful, with over 43% achieving A* or A grades.

“Across the board the majority of students have met or exceeded their personal targets so there have been many success stories, not just those at the top end of the ability range.

"However, I would like to draw attention to the fact that 19 students achieved straight 3 or more A*/A grades at A level, and I will just single out a few fantastic performances – Emma Chen, Alastair Holmes and Flora Matthews all achieved at least 3 A* grades, Emma and Alastair were successful in securing a place to study at Cambridge University.

"I am, however, just as proud of all the successful candidates who have exceeded their personal targets, through hard work and ambition, and will be starting university courses of their choice in the autumn.

“As always Hardenhuish demonstrates that it has extraordinary students, fantastic teachers and terrific support from our parents.

“Congratulations to the entire school community.”