Ridgeway headteacher Elizabeth Cooper said the school's results reflected the commitment of pupils and teachers.

"Today is the day to acknowledge their achievements," she said.

Robert Buckby, from Wanborough, wants to become an engineer or an architect, but yesterday he was focusing on his six A*s, three As and one B at GCSE level.

"I did better than I expected," said Robert.

"I couldn't believe it," said Charlotte Gillingham, shortly after learning about her three A*s and seven As. Charlotte, from Liddington, is considering becoming a forensic scientist and intends to stay at the school's sixth form to study A Levels.

Kelly Crockett, from Badbury, said she was excited about her nine As and one B.

The 16-year-old said she had been convinced she was going to fail. Kelly is moving on to New College to study business studies, among other subjects.

Robin Hanley, from Wroughton, got an impressive seven As and one A*.

Even so, he said he "probably could have done better."

Robin, 16, is staying on at the school to study A Levels in physics, chemistry, maths and English.