YEAR 11 students at the Gateway Academy in Thurrock turned up to learn their GCSE outcomes today and most left in celebratory mood.

There were shrieks of happiness and relief as student after student opened their envelopes to see how well they have achieved.

A statement from the academy at Marshfoot, Tilbury, said: "Senior leaders and Trustees are delighted that once again, Gateway has continued to excel with many students achieving outstanding GCSE results.

"Overall results are higher, in-line with schools nationally, but given the students' starting points the 2021 GCSE results for Gateway represent exceptional progress over time.

"In recent years, Gateway has proven that its students can compete with the best in the UK across a broad range of subjects with maths, arts and modern foreign languages outstripping the UK's Average. In 2021 the top 12 students achieved 100 Grade 7s and above qualifications.

"The Gateway Grammar Stream, introduced when these pupils were in Year 7, has provided the necessary support and stimulus to ensure that more-able students achieve in-line with their potential.

Head of school Mrs Grainne McLaughlin added: "I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our Year 11 cohort from 2021 for everything they have achieved throughout their time with us. Our students are exceptional and to work with them every day is a privilege."

Gateway Learning Community CEO, Kevin Sadler said: "This has been a very difficult time for teachers and students alike but our teachers showed great integrity in moderating the results to ensure that the young people were awarded the results that they deserve."