THE retiring headteacher of King Charles I School was “really pleased” with the number of his students’ achievements in this year’s GCSEs.

More than 200 school pupils took all their examinations at the end of the year due to the recent changes to stop in-year modular tests.

The changes meant pupils did not have the opportunity to re-sit and improve on their overall grades in the key subject areas of English, maths and science.

The school’s results saw 55 per cent of students gain at least five A* to C grades including English and maths.

Tim Gulliver, who will be replaced as headteacher by Stephen Brownlow from September, said: “I am really pleased with the very high number of individual achievements at GCSE this year.

“In context to the changes, our 55 per cent A* to C pass rate compares favourably with last year’s out turns.

“Our results in English language and in English literature were exceptional, as they were in the three major sciences, art and religious education.”

This year’s top performers at King Charles I were Andrew Bishton, who achieved 10 A* grades and an A, and Thomas Williams, who gained seven A*s and four As.

Mr Gulliver added: “As always, I am extremely proud of our young people who show such high levels of enthusiasm, commitment, industry and energy.

“I thank them, my staff and parents for their combined efforts in realising so many rewarding outcomes.

“Bright futures lie ahead.”