Stockton pupils praised for resilience amid national uncertainty over exam grades

Mo Wilkinson, headteacher at Our Lady and St Bede Catholic Academy, in Stockton, added: “We are really proud of the way the pupils have conducted themselves in challenging and distressing times.

“Thanks to the eventual and welcome Government U-turn to award centre assessed grades, our fantastic pupils are able to walk out with the phenomenal results they richly deserve.

“This group represents more than an impressive set of results – they are an impressive set of individuals and I know they will achieve great things in the future.”

Mrs Wilkinson praised parents and carers for their unwavering support and working with the school during the lockdown.

She also thanked teachers for their “relentless dedication and drive to secure success for their pupils”.

Teaching staff at the school, which is part of Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust, had worked with “huge integrity” to work through the process of centre assessed grades.

A total of 140 pupils received their results, with Harry Beall being the top performing boy, and Caitlin Fitt producing the best results among the girls.

Harry, who achieved five grade 9s and grade 8s in the rest of his subjects, said: “I’m really surprised but thrilled to have done so well.”

Caitlin added: “I’m shocked and very happy. It has been a bit stressful with all the changes, but it’s worked out in the end. We have had the best school possible, with lots of support.”

Corbie Millward was delighted with an excellent set of results after his studies were interrupted by frequent treatment for type one diabetes. “It’s been hard at times but I’m overjoyed with my results.”

He also paid tribute to his teachers, saying: “I was happy to put my trust in the school because I know it fights for every single pupil. The school is a close community and it has been wonderful.”

Abigail Smith, who achieved three grade 9s in biology, chemistry, and RE, is considering a career in reproductive biology.

Her interest in medicine has been inspired while taking a first aid course with the Army cadets, where she was recently promoted to corporal.

While serving with the Hardwick Royal Military Police Cadets, she has also been involved in a range of fundraising activities in aid of the Children’s Heart Unit Fund.

Namrah Abbass, who is hoping to pursue a career in medicine after surpassing her expectations with her results, has also been supporting the community during lockdown.

“My father runs a taxi business and we have been helping to deliver supplies to food banks,” she explained.

During lockdown, the school established its own food bank – known as the “community cupboard” – for local families to access food and other basic supplies.

Mrs Wilkinson said: “This was another shining example of the way the school aims to be a vital part of the community.”

James Skull has combined strong academic achievement with sporting prowess, excelling in athletics and helping Stockton Town Football Club win Division One of the Teesside Football Junior Alliance League.

James, who achieved three grade 9s, said: “I knew I’d put in a lot of hard work and it’s paid off.”

Amy Thomas, who is hoping to apply to Cambridge after her A-levels, said: “It’s been difficult with all the uncertainty over the grades, and feeling that it wasn’t in our control, but it’s worked out better than I’d hoped in the end.”