University or work beckons for many graduating sixth-form students, but one young man from Dereham is planning an unusual sojourn first - to volunteer at a church in Serbia.
James’ Jimmy’ Cockburn, 18, was one hundreds of students from around mid Norfolk who flocked to Dereham Sixth Form College, Reepham College and Fakenham Academy to pick up their results today (August 17).
Jimmy, who attends the town's sixth form, achieved three A grades - in further maths, chemistry, and physics - to go along with his A* in maths. The excellent results mean he will be able to study natural sciences at Durham University next year, after his time volunteering in Europe.
Jimmy said: “Those exams, particularly the further maths, were the hardest exams I have ever sat, so I am very happy with my results, particularly my maths exams.”
Fellow student Shona Gregory achieved three As - in geography, law, and history - as well as an A* in fine art. She is now taking a gap year and hopes to join the police force.
Shona said: “I am delighted. To see it all come together in the end, I am so so happy.”
Noah Kinnaird, from Shipdham, is heading to the University of Sheffield to study chemical engineering after his three As in biology, chemistry and maths.
“It feels like it's all worth it, as much of a relief as anything because it has been quite stressful,” he said.
Friends Amelia Zahid and Maisie Tye were also celebrating, having juggled two years of working and volunteering with their studying.
Amelia achieved two As and a B in Chemistry, biology and maths, and Maisie had two Bs and an A in history, law and English literature.
Amelia said: “I am very happy with it because now I can go to university to do a six-year degree in medicine, but will be going next year as I am taking a gap year first, but hoping to go to Manchester, Nottinghamshire or Liverpool.”
Maisie said: “I am so happy because I got into my first choice uni in Liverpool to study law. I am so excited to go and experience a new life and make my own path.”
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Reepham College reported that 100pc of their A-Level students' grades were in the A*-E range, with 78pc ranging from A* to C.
Helen McGuinness, college director, said: “As we mark our fourteenth year as an Ofsted-rated 'outstanding' college, we once again celebrate the tremendous results of our students.
"Over two-thirds of students were accepted by their first-choice university and numerous have secured apprenticeships with some of the most prestigious employers in the UK, including Rolls Royce."
She said the results reflected "two years of exceptionally hard work" as well as excellent support from staff and parents.
Ms McGuinness added: "Our students start the next exciting stage of their lives as capable, mature, and well-rounded young people.”
Fakenham Academy headteacher Gavin Green said praised that school's Year 13 students.
Mr Green said: "As a cohort, they have faced significant challenges and have overcome these with determination and endeavour.
"Overall, our Year 13s have bucked the national picture, with grades largely in line - or higher - than last year, despite the national realignment.
"We wish all of our Year 13 pupils every future success and happiness."
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