STUDENTS across Halesowen and Sandwell have been celebrating a bumper crop of A-level and BTEC results today.

Halesowen College saw pupils achieve an A-level pass rate of 99 per cent, as well as more than 50 per cent of level 3 applied programme students achieve the highest possible triple Distinction* grades – the equivalent of three As at A-level.

David Williams, principal, said: “We are once again absolutely delighted with the results.

“I would like to congratulate each and every student who has worked hard to achieve their very best and thank the staff who have expertly supported our learners to success.

“I look forward to welcoming our new students this September.”

Windsor High School and Sixth Form had 13 per cent of students achieve at least three A*-A grades, or their equivalent, while 100 per cent of pupils passed the new vocational qualifications, with the average BTEC average grade now being Distinction-.

A spokesman for the school said: “We have another excellent set of results this year, testament to the hard work and dedication shown by our students and staff.

“Students can be proud that they have achieved some amazing attainment and progress scores demonstrating our commitment to excellence for all.”

Ormiston Forge Academy in Cradley Heath celebrated its best ever results after 85 per cent of the A-level cohort achieved three or more passes at grades A*-E.

Overall, 15 per cent of A-level entries at the academy secured the top A* or A grade and over a third of exams undertaken secured pupils an A*-B.

Andrew Burns, executive principal, said: “This year, 66 percent of sixth form students graduating from Forge have opted to progress to university – a six per cent increase from last year and a significant increase since we became an academy six years ago.

“I'm delighted that Forge students are leaving here as happy, well prepared young people. I wish them all the very best for the future and encourage them to always be the best that they can be.”

At Oldbury Academy, 32 per cent of A-Level grades achieved this year were at grades A*-B, while the academy also had 60 per cent of BTEC grades at Distinction level or higher.

All of the school’s students have secured a destination at post 18, whether this is at university, further training, or employment.

Headteacher Phil Shackleton said: “Once again our sixth form students have done us all proud, with a really impressive set of results. This is a true reward for their hard work and commitment to their studies.

“I have no doubt they will go on to continued success and I would like to wish all of our students the very best in their next steps.”