King's School pupils returned to school for the first time since March to collect some of the best A-Level results in the school history.

Almost 50 pupils shared a 100 per cent pass rate with 14 per cent of the results - based on performance data, teacher-assessed grades and mock exams - at A*.

Nearly 50 per cent of results - which could be adjusted in the weeks ahead - were either A* or A grades and nearly 90 per cent were A*-C grade.

The results crown a year which has seen the school celebrate 50 years of co-education.

Headmaster David Morton said: "I am absolutely thrilled that the hard work of our talented Upper Sixth students has been recognised in their wonderful A-Level results.

"This year's group has worked very hard over the last two years and, of course, they faced the challenge of lockdown affecting their final weeks at King's.

"Having attained our best GCSE results two years ago, it is no surprise the students have now performed equally well in their A Levels and BTEC studies."

He continued: "Despite the disruption and uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the students have pulled through and I am delighted for them."

Among the individual achievements, Sam Lewis and head girl Tallulah di Tomaso achieved three A* grades while Tom Kerr, Aman Khan, Will Morgan, Niamh Sharkey, Charlotte Sprason and Alex Wainwright had all A* and A grades.

Scott Jelf achieved two D* grades and a D in his BTEC Sport, equivalent to two A* and an A at A Level.

Varied university destinations include reading veterinary medicine at Nottingham, maths at Warwick, early childhood studies at Bath Spa and sport and exercise science at Cardiff Metropolitan.

One pupils has gained a coveted apprenticeship at St James's Place Wealth Management, while another will be studying rural enterprise and land management at Harper Adams University.

Mr Morton said: "While the coronavirus pandemic will undoubtedly define these students' memories of their final days in school, it was more striking for me that the students achieved something even more impressive despite the challenges they faced.

"Eight students joined the school catering team to produce more than a thousand meals for vulnerable local people during lockdown.

"Over a dozen students also volunteered to come and support younger pupils in the Junior School once their own studies had ended."

He continued: "Many others volunteered in their local communities to help their neighbours. It is this kindness and thoughtfulness for others which typifies King's pupils.

"As a cathedral school with a rich history, we are proud not only of our pupils' academic attainment, but also of the positive impact that they will make on society in the future."

For more information about King's, please visit https://www.thekingsschool.co.uk or email office@thekingsschool.co.uk.