STUDENTS whose school career saw them battle through exceptional and challenging circumstances have been praised by their head teacher.

Jon Purkiss, head of school at Stanford-le-Hope's St Clere's secondary school was speaking after the announcement of this year's GCSE cohort's results, which have improved from last year.

The youngsters in it started their school journey at the most difficult of times because of Covid, then after returned to the classroom the school premises were found to be badly affected by Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) at five borough schools.

In September 2023 many of St Clere's buildings were either closed down or reduced in capacity, meaning students had to return to remote working. Eventually the school erected temporary classroom to increase capacity and children returned to working on site, but the disruption to learning was significant.

However, students and staff rose to meet the challenge.

St Clere's School ended the week in a mood of celebration as the results were revealed, and students returned to the site to meet teachers and receive them.

The number of students achieving 4+ in English and Maths has increased. The number of students achieving 5+ in English and Maths also increased. The percentage of 4+, 5+ and 7+ grades achieved in English and Maths as individual subjects has improved. Many subjects across the curriculum are celebrating strong performances.

Mr Purkiss said: "We are incredibly proud of all our students however; we have some notable outcomes to celebrate.

"Our top 10 performers achieved 64 grade 8s and 9s between them. Congratulations to Owen Lui, Ada Uzor, Kimberley Mccann, Michelle Akanimo, Charlie Benson, Jude Groves, Alfie Dove-Webb, Elaine Onisaroth, Rayan Altaf and Sofia Oji Oji for their outstanding results.

"They have worked incredibly hard and demonstrated our values throughout their time at St Clere's School.

An additional mention to two students in this group. Owen achieved 9 grade 9s and 1 grade 8; Ada achieved 5 grade 9s and 4 grade 8s.

Mr Purkiss added: "I am delighted for our students; they have achieved some fantastic results. This year group had a disrupted education due to Covid. At St Clere's they also had the added disruption of RAAC.

"Our students have demonstrated resilience and a dedication to their pursuit of excellence. In doing so, they have overcome challenges and achieved strong results. I am very proud of our students and wish them well for their next steps in education. I am delighted many have chosen to continue their journey at our Sixth Form.

"The improvements in outcomes in English and Maths are very pleasing. We have also seen strong outcomes in an array of subjects this year.

"The staff at St Clere's School have demonstrated unwavering commitment in challenging circumstances; they have worked tirelessly to support our students. I thank them for all their efforts."