Ormiston Rivers Academy (ORA) is celebrating its students' achievements today, after they received their GCSE results following the second year of Covid-19 disruption to exams.

The school, on Southminster Road in Burnham-on-Crouch, has seen continued success despite the challenges faced by students who had to study at home during lockdowns.

Students' results were determined by teachers, based on work they produced throughout their course, after secondary school exams were cancelled for the second year in a row. These grades were moderated and assessed by external exam boards which awarded the final grades.

Individual stories of student success include:

- Evie Guilfoyle with nine grade 9s and a Distinction. Evie will be heading to Writtle University College to pursue Equine Studies.

- Dexter Harland-Hackenschmidt with six grade 9s, four grade 8s and a Distinction. Dexter will be joining ORA Sixth Form for his A-levels.

- Jessica Turner with three grade 9s, five grade 8s and three Distinction*s. Jessica will be joining Southend High School for Boys for her A-levels.

- Charlie Tucker with two grade 9s, six grade 8s, two grade 7s and a Distinction. Charlie will be joining ORA Sixth Form for his A-levels.

Emma Baker, principal at ORA, said: "We are so proud of this year group – they have come through these testing times with such bravery and determination.

"They thoroughly deserve their hard-earned grades, that reflect over 10 years of education with the support of their loved ones and school staff.

"As a community, we should be proud of the phenomenal progress that many individuals have made during their time at Ormiston Rivers Academy.

"It has been a privilege to witness not only their fantastic academic achievements, but also their contributions to sport, creative arts, and selfless work for the school and local community.

"They leave the school as excellent, hardworking young adults that everyone can be proud of, and I wish them the very best of luck for the future.

"A special thanks to the staff, parents and carers who have supported the students through a very difficult period of time."