There were smiles all round in Calne as pupils collected The John Bentley School’s best ever set of exam results.

The results showed 67 per cent of students achieving A* to C grades, with 46 per cent including English and maths – both an improvement on last year’s.

The 67 per cent means a 17 per cent rise in standards over the last two years.

Ellie Shepherd, of Yatesbury, was delighted with her six A*s, four As and one B.

She said: “I am really pleased with my results and my dad, who came with me, was really proud.

“I was really nervous this morning but now I am fine – it is a bit overwhelming.

“I am hoping to go to Sheldon sixth form to study biology, chemistry, French and maths.”

Georgena Jennings is planning to take chemistry, biology, English and history at sixth form after gaining four A*s, two As and four Bs.

She said: “I am pleased because I worked really hard for the exams. I am one of those people who needs to work, I do not just pass exams, so I am glad the hard work paid off.”

Other high achievers included Adam Perret, who scored four A*s, three As and two Bs and Tierney Mason achieved three A*s, five As and two Bs.

Guidance leader of Year 11 Ed Bouchard said: “These are a fantastic set of results and they show how hard the year group worked to achieve them.”

All students taking the school’s range of BTEC courses in business studies, drama, science and PE passed, with many achieving starred distinctions.

Headteacher Gordon Trafford said: “These results are the highest ever and are a testament to the hard work and dedication of all The John Bentley School staff.”