ALLEGATIONS that improved exam results reflect falling standards have been roundly condemned by Wootton Bassett School head teacher Hylton Thomas.

At his final speech day prior to retirement next summer, Mr Thomas claimed such remarks are ill-considered.

He reviewed pupils' ever widening achievements despite momentous changes in the educational system during the past 15 years, and re-stated his belief in the Everest Phenomena.

The mountain, on which the hopes and lives of so many climbers were dashed in the first half of the 20th century, has been conquered often since Sir Edmund Hillary reached its summit in 1953.

Mr Thomas said: "In 1995 I was amazed to read that on a single day in May, 39 people reached the summit of Everest.

"Yet Everest has not shrunk; no ski-lift has been built. It is the climbers and their support that has changed.

"This should be borne in mind when considering the reasons for our students' improved achievements over the years."

"In 1986, just over 20 per cent of Wootton Bassett fifth formers gained five or more O-Levels or CSE Grade 1 passes. It is astonishing to note that the comparative figure for this year is 62 per cent."

"The A-level pass rate has increased from just over 80 per cent in 1986 to 95 per cent this year."

After highlighting outstanding individual results, he praised the wider educational experiences and flexibility of study now available, particularly in Wootton Bassett's sixth form.

Throughout the school, pupils' concern for others and efforts to help less fortunate people have contributed greatly to the well-being of the school and the wider community at home and overseas.

"I congratulate all those who have represented themselves, their families and this school with such distinction," Mr Thomas said.