The celebrations continued in Havering as more students started mapping out their futures after picking up their GCSE results last week.

Sanders Draper School in Suttons Lane, Hornchurch had reason to celebrate after boasting its best set of results with a pass rate of 62 per cent of pupils achieving five or more A* to C grades including English and maths.

Among the school’s success stories was Mehleen Brishti.

The teenager moved to England from Bangladesh at the end of year six and achieved an impressive 11 A*s and an A in biology.

She said:“I never expected it. I was a little bit sad about biology but I will live with it. I am pleased and I spoke to mum in Bangladesh and she started crying so I know she’s proud of me.

“I want to be a surgeon.”

Headteacher John McEachern said: “I am delighted that the hard work and effort many of the students have shown over the last five years has paid off for them to achieve such brilliant results. I and the rest of the staff at the school wish them the very best for the future.”

Students-whose ages range from 17 to 32- at Havering College of Further and Higher Education are also in good spirits after achieving excellent GSCE grades.

Mehr Un-Nisa, 19, from Romford, who gained an A in Chemistry, B in Physics and Cs in Human Health and Physiology and Humanities, intends to take up an offer at the University of East London to study Extended Bio Science and Health.

She said: “I am happy with my results. Originally I had wanted to do medicine but now I have had a change of heart and am planning on pharmacy.”

Havering College principal designate Maria Thompson said: “We are very pleased to see so many personal success stories emerging from our GCSE results. The students have laid down strong foundations for progression in further or higher education towards achieving their career goals.”