There were squeals of jubilation today as youngsters across Havering received their A-level results.

The borough has boasted excellent pass rates of 99.7 per-cent – up .9 per-cent on last year.

Havering Sixth Form College in Wingletye Lane, Hornchurch, celebrated a pass rate of 98.4 per cent, with 41.2 per-cent of students receiving A* to B grades.

Proud principal Paul Wakeling said: “These results are due to hard work, a love of learning and genuine commitment from young people, teachers and support staff in the college. Our students will be well placed to progress to good universities and relevant employment opportunities.”

Havering College in Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch, was also celebrating after scoring a pass rate of 98 per-cent – up 1 per-cent on last year.

Overall, 11 A-level courses at the college received a 100 per-cent pass rate.

Jubilant staff and students at Coopers Company and Coborn School also boasted a near-perfect pass rate of 99.7 per-cent.

The school in St Mary’s Lane, Upminster, saw 60 per-cent of students achieve A* to B grades.

Head teacher David Mansfield said: “They were a strong year group and we are pleased that they have all performed so well.

“We know that things are going to be a little tough this year because of the limited spaces available at university but I am pleased for the staff and the kids who have all worked so hard.”

It was an emotional day for Frances Bardsley School head teacher Suzanne Philipps. The proud teacher celebrated her last A-level results after announcing her retirement after 23 years at the school in Romford.

She said: “We have two students going to Cambridge and many more going to LSE and medical school. They’re all top universities and the girls have worked so hard. It’s not just about slogging away, it’s about being inspired to do well.”

Cabinet Member for Children and Learning, Cllr Paul Rochford, said: “What a great result once again for Havering. Our students have shown that all their hard work has paid off by posting another year of brilliant results of which we can all be proud.”

For the full round-up of A-level results see next week’s Romford Recorder or visit our website www.romfordrecorder.co.uk