Teenagers who navigated the pandemic as they prepared for their GCSE exams have “performed beyond all expectations”.

As Year 11 students returned to Epping St John’s Church of England School, in Epping, to collect their GCSE results, their resilience and determination were praised.

The school was declared 'good' in all areas earlier this year after a visit from Ofsted inspectors.

It is the first time the school has received the grading, having previously been classified as 'requires improvement' in 2015.

The cohort of young people have endured lockdowns and school closures during their GCSE preparation years.

They are the first year group since 2019 to sit their exams, with previous students being awarded their grades based on teacher assessment.

Among those celebrating success were:

  • Ella Sargent, who achieved eight grade 9 and two grade 8
  • Rosa Holt, who achieved six grade 9, two grade 8 and two grade 7
  • Kyle Robertson, who achieved two grade 9, six grade 8 and two grade 7
  • Oliver Worrall, who achieved one grade 9, five grade 8, three grade 7 and one grade 6

Head of school Mike Yerosimou said: “Following on from last week’s brilliant sixth form results, we are delighted for our Year 11 students who have also performed beyond all expectations.

“Their single-minded resilience and determination to succeed saw them through what was a challenging couple of years. Nobody should forget the years of disruption they had to withstand throughout their courses and the fact they have come out with these results will set them up for a great future.

“We are really proud that so many of our wonderful Year 11s are remaining with us into our sixth form for the next two years.”

To apply for a place at the Epping St John’s Sixth Form, email ChristofiF@bmatesj.org.uk