A HEADTEACHER says she is proud of her sixth form students, who have received “a successful batch” of A-level results after a challenging year.

Sixth form students at Harwich and Dovercourt High School received their results yesterday, along with the rest of the county.

This year, the results were based on their students’ predicted grades after exams were cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Kate Finch, headteacher of Harwich and Dovercourt High School, said the sixth form students obtained successful results, with a 100 per cent pass rate and 36 per cent A to B grades.

She added: “We are very proud of our sixth form students.

“It has been a successful year for post-16 students with a 100 per cent pass rate and 36 per cent A to B grades.

“A number of students have achieved what they needed to go on to their chosen courses at university.”

However, another school in the district felt disappointed with students’ predicted results.

Neil Gallagher, who is the executive headteacher at Clacton County High School, would usually spend A-level results day congratulating students as they excitedly receive their grades in the school’s dinner hall.

But this year, students found out their grades digitally, from the comfort of their own homes, due to Covid-19.

Like the thousands across the country, many have been left disheartened and upset, and feel let down by Government’s decision to cancel exams and predict results.

Mr Gallagher also feels his students have been done a disservice by the scoring system.

“Exam results time is always emotional for both students and their families, but even more so this year,” he said.

“This approach, whilst broadly ‘fair’ across the country, does not work for all individuals.

“Normally, I would be writing about the amazing and inspiring achievements of our young people, but this year my response is somewhat muted.”

Mr Gallagher is, however, still trying his best to take the positives out of the situation and says some of his pupils have achieved grades which they are pleased with.

Mr Gallagher added: “While there are some disappointments, it has undoubtedly been a challenging time for all, there are still some very pleasing outcomes.”