GIGGLESWICK School pupils have exceeded national expectations by achieving top grade results and an impressive 94 per cent overall pass rate this year, despite concerns over the new, tougher, numerically graded GCSEs, teachers have said.

More than 42 per cent of Giggleswick's candidates achieved A*A equivalent (7-9) grades, compared with a 20.5 per cent national average. The overall A*-C equivalent pass rate increased to 94 per cent, compared with a 66.9 per cent national figure.

Science students have been top performers again this year with an impressive 87 per cent achieving grades 7-9 in chemistry, 81 per cent in physics, and all science subjects recording a 100 per cent pass rate.

There was more success in drama, music, German, further maths and PE, with a clean sweep of 100 per cent passes in these subjects too.

Headmaster, Mark Turnbull said: "We're not an academically selective school, which makes these results all the more impressive. I cannot praise our pupils enough for the personal journeys they have travelled and all the successes they have achieved amidst a sea of curriculum changes. For us it's not just about the top grades, it's about individual attainment and I am delighted to see Giggleswick supporting all of our students so well."

Tougher standards, less coursework and more exams have created a great deal of additional pressure for many pupils and the importance of pastoral care and support at schools to help alleviate stress and anxiety has never been higher, he said.

Mr Turnbull added: "Exams are important but so is loving what you do. We know that happy pupils make successful learners and at Giggleswick the well-being and mental health of pupils is a priority. Our school is renowned for its caring, supportive community."