Pupils at Valentines High School, Cranbrook Road, Gants Hill were left waiting a little longer to get their results compared with other schools but they were definitely worth it once the brown envelopes were handed out.

Screams and cheers could be heard from down the hall as students celebrated getting the best results the school has seen with 89 per cent getting five A*-C.

Michael Dean, 16, of Coventry Road, Ilford, who got four A*’s and 7 A’s, said: “I felt queasy this morning but I was confident that I would be happy with my results after working really hard. The first three years at school are fun and relaxed but the past two have been the opposite.

“But, it all paid off in the end.”

Headteacher, Sylvia Jones, said: “We are really happy that every single student achieved five GCSE passes through a combination of hard work and support from their families.

“I don’t think they’ve got easier but it is the pupil’s determination and focused staff that boost results every year.”

Sabrina Alam, 16, of Cranbrook Road, Ilford, added: “I got eight A’s, two A*’s and a B which I am thrilled with. I am looking forward to A-levels and furthering my education.”