The percentage of top grade A-level passes went up at Ashby School this year with an impressive 51 per cent of passes at grades A* to B. Seventy six per cent of passes were at grades A* to C – up by two per cent compared to last year.

Four students managed to secure placed at either Oxford or Cambridge University and seven students achieved A* in three subjects.

For Ana Rodrigues, her three A*'s secured her a place to read biochemistry at Oxford University. The delighted youngster, who is the second person in her family to study at Oxford, said: "When it came to applying for Oxford, I just went for it.

"I started my application process early because it is quite complicated and I wanted to make sure my personal statement was as good as it could be. After my degree, I’m thinking about doing research or working for NASA. I've got this far – so why not?"

Max Hart, who achieved A*A*A*, will study theoretical physics at Imperial College, while Adam Essex, who scored A*A*A*, plans to follow a degree course in sports science and maths at Loughborough University.

Mariella Nicholls-Sykes, who accomplished A*AA, travelled to Tanzania to gain work experience during her time at Ashby and will fulfil her dream to study medicine at Birmingham University.

Head teacher Eddie Green said: "We are extremely proud of our students for achieving some excellent A level results. The percentage of students gaining top grades is up and students have exceeded their predicted grades in many subjects.

"Virtually every student applying to university has secured a place at their first or second choice university. Today’s results are down to the hard work and commitment of both staff and students."

Looking for a job? There are thousands available at www.Fish4.co.uk