It was relief and joy in schools around Barking and Dagenham today as youngsters celebrated their GCSE results.

Many young people and their parents were rightly worried following the debacle of A-Level results last week, but following the Government’s U-turn that Centre Assessed grades would be used, for many, the concerns turned to moments of joy.

There have been some outstanding individual performances including Keertana from Barking Abbey who achieved straight 9s, which is equivalent to above A* in the previous grading system across the board. She plans to stay on at Barking Abbey Sixth Form to study Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement said: “It has been an incredibly hard time for us all, but especially our young people who have had the worry of their GCSE results hanging over them since schools closed in March.

“However, I was delighted to see so many happy faces today and I am so glad that they government made a u turn and allowed results to be given on teacher’s predicted grades.”

There was also delight for Rebekah from Eastbury Community School, who achieved two grade 9s, five grade 8s and a grade 7. Rebekah plans on staying on at Eastbury to attend sixth form and study Sociology, English Literature and History.

David Dickson, executive head teacher at Eastbury Community School and Chair of Secondary Heads said: “Secondary headteachers across Barking and Dagenham are extremely pleased that the grades they have given their pupils have now been recognised as a true reflection of their abilities. This has ensured that young people are getting to their chosen destinations and reducing their anxiety.

“I would like to congratulate all pupils across the borough and also recognise the hard work of their teachers.”

All Saints Catholic School also saw a number of individual success including highest achiever, Precious, who achieved eight grade 9s, a grade 8 and a grade 7. William and Lurie Luca gained seven grade 9s each, while Sophie and Rosie achieved six grade 9s a piece.

Roger Leighton, Barking and Dagenham representative of the Association  of School and College Leaders (ASCL) said “Following the chaos around the government’s handling of last week’s A’ Level results, local schools have been delighted with today’s GCSE outcomes for their pupils, reflecting as they do the hard work put in by the students and the painstaking care that leaders and teachers have taken over centre-assessed grades.

“ASCL is still demanding an urgent independent inquiry to understand why all the problems were not foreseen – and the government still needs to put in place a contingency plan in the event of disruption next year. For the moment, though, our thoughts are focused on congratulating local students and their teachers on a great set of GCSE results.”

Yvonne Kelly, Principal of Barking & Dagenham College, stated: “At Barking and Dagenham College, we understand that this has been a year of many changes and challenges. Our response as a college is to do all we can to support learners to own the change, get ahead and achieve their ambitions.  We are guaranteeing all students a place to study with us to provide certainty, assurance and a route to success during this unprecedented time.

“For more information on how to secure your place and get ahead, students can contact us on 020 8090 3020, go to the Barking and Dagenham College website or visit us in-person at our Rush Green Campus.”