A school has celebrated an “outstanding” set of results as a new grading system came into play.

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys School in Elstree saw 97 per cent of its students achieve a grade 8 or 9, the equivalent of an A* as the long-awaited GCSE results were revealed.

Habs said that 72pc of all its grades were a grade 9, 83pc of grades in maths were a 9 and 89pc of students achieved at least one grade 9.

Twenty-two per cent of pupils achieved straight A* and a further 49pc of pupils achieved all grades nine-seven (A*/A).

Tolu Elesin, a keen sportsmen involved in running, swimming, water polo, and rugby, was awarded ten A*’s and one A.

He said: “I’m extremely happy. I have had support from my teachers and my family have encouraged me immensely.”

Watford Observer:

Tolu Elesin with his mum and sister

Meanwhile Zamaan Dudhia, who achieved two grade 9’s and 8 A*’s added: “I’m ecstatic. The support from my parents and Habs has been immense.”

Manav Sharma, who received one grade 9 and nine A*’s, said: “I’m delighted that the hard work has paid off. The reaction of my parents when I opened my results is something I’ll never forget. I’d like to thank my teachers at Habs for their support and dedication.”

Gus Lock, headmaster at Habs, said: “These outstanding GCSE results demonstrate, at the very highest level, the breadth and depth of skills which will enable these young men to thrive in an increasingly complex future.

“It is clear that the Habs curriculum is as strong, broad and successful now as it has ever been and I warmly congratulate all our pupils, as well as their teachers and families, for these outstanding results.”