It all adds up for Hartlepool student James as he gets his maths A-level two years early

James Bell, 16, is a Year 11 student at Teesside High School (THS) at Eaglescliffe, near Stockton.

He studied for the A-level qualification alongside his senior school studies, and was overjoyed to achieve an A*.

The school as a whole is celebrating record A*-A grades, with 44% of entrants awarded the top grades, compared to 26.2% nationally.

This is 11% up on last year, and 64% of all entries achieved prestigious high grades (A*-B).

Half of THS's sixth form students achieved three straight high grades (A*-B), and its overall pass rate was 98% pass rate.

Headteacher Kirsty Mackenzie said: “Almost half of all entries at Teesside High School achieved an A* or A grade this year.

"That's a phenomenal result and just reward following years of hard work and dedication from students and staff alike.

“It is heartening to see our record for exceptional value added results continue.

"Our students are excelling and achieving beyond their target grades, a significant strength of our school recognised by government league tables in 2017.

“Our students share great ambition and these excellent results will allow them to study at some of the best universities in the world and secure fantastic higher apprenticeship and career opportunities.

“This day will be a memorable one for those who leave us after almost 15 years at Teesside High School.

"We wish everyone the very best of luck for their undoubtedly successful futures.”