Almost all Monk’s Walk School students gained a place to study at their first or second choice of university (including three to Oxford and other Russell Group universities) and several will be taking up apprenticeship places with top employers.

Headteacher Kate Smith said: “We are very pleased with the results overall which reflect the hard work of our students and staff and the brilliant support we receive from our parents. I would like to say a personal congratulations to all of our students and wish them all the best for the future.”

Assma Asif of Knightsfield School gained three A-levels and is off to Brunel to study BioMed. Assma was jointly taught at Knightsfield and Monk’s Walk School.

Maddie Hindson, Zak Watson and Stephanie Santos-Paulo gained places at Oxford University. Maddie will be studying Chemistry, Zak mathematics and Stephanie medicine.

Speaking to the WHT, students expressed both relief and excitement at finding out their grades.

Caitlin Veal, 18, is off to study sociology at York St John University after gaining A-levels in psychology (C), sociology (A) and English (B).

She said: “I did better than I thought. I’m so happy.”

Lucas De Assuncao, 18, achieved an A* in maths, C in economics and a B in physics.

He said: “I’m pleased with my results. I’m going to Plymouth uni or Bath if they accept me.”

Delali Kodjokuma, 18, gained D grades in both media and sociology plus a distinction in BTEC public services. He said: “I was trying to get two Cs and I got two Ds. Luckily Portsmouth, the uni I want to go to, have offered me an alternative course. I’m pleased it’s all worked out.”

• For more exam results news, visit the Welwyn Hatfield Times’ Education section.