Head's pride as students scoop fantastic results at Harton Academy

Student Salome Johnson at Harton Technology Academy, receiving her GCSE results.

There was plenty of anticipation as pupils picked up their grades at the Lisle Road school in South Shields today.

But executive head, Sir Ken Gibson, says he's delighted with the efforts both staff and pupils have put in which saw 64% of students gain passes graded between 9 to 4 - which included English and Maths.

Sir Ken said: "We have been delighted with this year's results, considering the new changes to the system - it's very similar to last year's figures of 66%.

"We have also had some outstanding individual results, the students have done themselves proud.

"The effort both pupils and staff put in these days is phenomenal. It's wonderful to see that so many of our students are also carrying on their studies at our sixth form.

"I wish every one of them well in their chosen future paths."

Student Olivia Heron at Harton Technology Academy, receiving her GCSE results.

Salome Johnson, 16, from South Shields scooped seven grade 9s, two 8s, plus an A* and a A^.

She said: "I am over the moon with my results, I am so pleased.

"I'll be staying on at the sixth form and i'm going to study chemistry, physics and maths A-levels.

"I think one day I'd like some kind of career in perhaps engineering."

Olivia Heron, 16, from South Shields, is hoping for a career in medicine after being awarded six 9s, three 8s, one seven and an A^.

She's now off to Newcastle's Royal Grammar School to study A-Levels in biology, chemistry and maths.

She said: "I cried when I opened my results and read my marks, I was so happy.

"I am hoping that after I finish my A-levels I will then be able to study medicine at university."