A-level results 2017: Sir Frederic Osborn School

Emotions were running high as pupils at Sir Frederic Osborn School in Welwyn Garden City picked up their much-anticipated A-level results this morning.

Reece Brenchley, 18, of Panshanger, will be off to Northampton University to study drama after picking up a double distinction star BTEC in performing arts.

Reece, who also gained a grade D in maths at A-level, said: “It was nerve-racking picking up my results.

“I’m very pleased with my drama grade.

“I want to be a primary school teacher.”

Alex Rodway achieved Cs in film studies and media studies, plus a distinction star BTEC in business.

Alex said: “I’m shocked.

“It was an anxious time picking up the results.

“I got into King’s College London and I’ll be doing film studies.”

Alex’s mum Michelle said: “I’m really proud.”

Paige Gibbons, 17, of Howlands, will be off to Sussex University to study law.

Paige achieved an A in EPQ (extended project qualification), an A* in sociology, B in religious studies and C in law.

She said: “I’m so happy.

“It was really really nerve-racking [picking up the results].

“I felt overwhelmed.”

Her mum Denise said: “I’m so proud.

“I had a moment when I got a bit emotional.

“She’s my eldest daughter and the first in the family to go to university.

“It’s a really big achievement.”

Rebecca Turnbull, 18, of Welwyn Garden City, gained an A in creative writing, a B in Spanish and a B in psychology.

She will be going to Leicester University to study Spanish and French.

Rebecca said: “It’s a weight off my shoulders.

“I somehow pulled it out the bag!”

Charley Holloway-Biddle achieved an A in biology, A in English literature and B in psychology.

Charley will be studying clinical psychology and mental health at Royal Holloway University

Joshua Aylott will be going to Loughborough University to read geography with his A grade in geography, B in biology and D* in sports studies.

Huw Christianson achieved an A in computer science, B grades in maths and physics and will be off to York University to read computer sciences.

Headteacher Jed Whelan said: “It has been a day of absolute celebration, which vindicates all the hard work put in by students, their families and staff.

“We are delighted with the performance of all our students.

“They have all applied themselves to their studies and are reaping the rewards.

“All our students have secured places at the universities of their choice and we wish every one of them every success in their chosen pathways.

“We should acknowledge the support they have had from their families but also the tremendous work done by both primary and secondary teachers to prepare students for these tougher exams.”

• For more A-level results day news, visit our Education section at www.whtimes.co.uk/news/education