The mood was jubilant at Newman Catholic College as pupils trooped in to get their GCSE results this morning.
Boys compared marks, some trying to get to grips with the new points system for English and maths, with some standout performances for individual pupils.
Joshua Herskovitz-Wong recieved the highest grade possible in maths with a 9, equivalent to an A**, an 8 in English language, A* and a 7, an A under the ‘old system’, in English literature.
The 16-year-old said: “I got a 9 in maths which I’m really pleased about. I didn’t expect an 8 in English, English literature is probably the worst subject I’ve ever taken in my life with the amount of hours spent taking down quotes. We always have that feeling, what if something goes wrong? That didn’t happen for me though. I’m really happy.”
Joshua also received the highest grade possible in religious education with 100 per cent in the subject, pointing to the number on his result sheet in disbelief. “Just how is that possible?!” he added.
Antonino Cafiero-Regueira, 15, already had Spanish and Italian GCSE’s under his belt as he went on to score double 8’s for maths and English language. a 7 in literature, an A* in French and B in music.
His mother Pili Regueira, who is a receptionist at the school in Harlesden Road, said: “I’m over the moon. It’s hard work but it pays off. They’ve all done really well.”
Headmaster Danny Coyle, said: “It’s a brilliant performance by all the kids. All the teachers have worked really hard. These are great young men who deserve the good coming to them.
“The number of pupils who have made huge progress has grown. These new exams are much harder, much tougher on the children.
“I’m thrilled with the performance of the boys.”
NCC stayed open all summer as it held a summer school for Syrian students, crowdfunding £20,000 in order to make it take place. They also held a police summer school for pupils.
Mr Coyle added: “This has got to be the best school that I have ever worked in.”
Cllr Mili Patel, cabinet member for children and young People, said: “On behalf of Brent Council, I would like to congratulate every student celebrating today. It’s the culmination of many years of hard work and I wish all of the young people receiving their results today the very best of luck for the future.
“I’d also like to congratulate all of the teachers, staff and governors whose hard work and tireless commitment all year round helps support our young people in Brent to ensure that they get the best possible start in life.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here