SKY-high ambitions have seen a trio of skydiving students fly through their GCSEs – dedicating their success to the memory of their former teacher.

Darlington-based Longfield Academy pupils, Ollie Roberts, David Templeton and Callum Kemp helped to raise more than £2,000 for charity following the death of much-loved tutor, Nigel Nattress, who had been diagnosed with motor neuronE disease.

The 16-year-olds were supported by their RE teacher, Stuart Rawle, who also joined in a 10,000ft skydive at Durham Tees Valley Airport in memory of Mr Nattress who died in February.

Ollie, from Darlington, said: “Mr Nattress was a great teacher – he taught me for three years and he was really funny.

“About eight of us took part in the skydive which was pretty nerve wracking but we really enjoyed it.”

The student made his tutors proud after attaining an impressive A*, six A grades, one B and one C grade.

His friend and fellow high-achiever, David, secured seven A grades, five Bs and a C, which contributed to the school’s best ever GCSE results.

Sara Davidson, deputy head teacher, said: “I am extremely proud of all of students and staff today.

“We have had the best set of GCSE results ever and only found out this week that we have the Gold Investors in People award.

“These results show great determination and hard work from across the board – students, staff and parents.”