IT WAS a nerve-wracking day but impressive A Level results across Lewisham and Greenwich have left most students celebrating.

In Lewisham borough, pupils achieved a borough average pass rate of 98.14 per cent - with 68.1 per cent at A* to C. Catford's Sedgehill pupils had particular cause to cheer with a 100 per cent pass rate and more students than ever going into university.

Headteacher Ken Mackenzie said: "We are really proud of the high standards that our students have achieved and that they now have the chance to take charge of their futures as they embrace the next part of their journey. Their successes reflect the hard work of our students and staff and the high level of parental involvement and support that we foster in our sixth form."

Prendergast Hilly Fields College in Brockley had another outstanding year of exam success with 100 per cent pass rate among Year 13 and more than half gaining A* to B grades and a quarter getting A* or A grades.

Alice Troy-Donovan, 17, who gained an A* and two As, and will study English at Oxford. She said: "I’m really looking forward to my time at Oxford, and the hard work over the last two years has made it worthwhile."

Lewisham Council's cabinet member for children and young people Councillor Helen Klier said: "I am thrilled the A Level results are above national average showing that our young people have risen to the challenge raised by our high expectations."

Greenwich students achieved an A Level pass rate from A* to B of 39 per cent - just up from last year - while A* to B grades in BTECs rose nearly 18 per cent to 59.8 per cent.

Woolwich Polytechnic School had the best results in its 100-year history, with 81 per cent getting A* to C grades.

Abhay Shrestha, 18, who bagged achieved an A* and three As, secured his place to study Physics at Warwick University. He said: "I am so proud of my achievement. My heartfelt thanks to all my teachers and friends for their inspiration, support and guidance."

And at Blackheath Bluecoat, where the sixth form will shut next summer as part of the school's phased closure, results improved across the board, with half the results being A* to C grades - up 17 per cent on last year.

Greenwich Council cabinet member for children's services Councillor Jackie Smith said: "Congratulations to all our students getting their A-level and BTEC results today.

“Their success reflects the hard work that they have put in, and gives them a great platform from which to progress into higher or further education or into employment."