Pianist Jonny Li hit a high note after securing top grades in his GCSEs. The 16-year-old, of West Auckland, who is renowned for playing classical music at various school events, gained six 9s and four 8s. He will now stay at St John’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College to study A levels in computer science, physics, maths and chemistry. He hopes to read a degree at Durham University and one day study a master’s degree at Cambridge. When he was in Year 10 Jonny won the Physicist of the Year accolade from Durham University. He said: “It is a great school. Staff are really supportive and if you ask for any resources they will always deliver.”
Animal loving artist Aimee Carville set tails wagging with her results after securing nine GCSEs including two 9s and five 8s. The 16-year-old, of Bishop Auckland, who draws pets for friends and staff, will study A levels in biology, geography, English and possibly art at St John’s Sixth Form. She said: “Teachers are really supportive and I can’t thank them enough because they have helped me get where I am today.” Her mum Michelle added: “I think St John’s brings the very best out of our children.” Aimee plans to study either geography or biology at university.
Twins Lily and Poppy Davidson, of Bishop Auckland, proved the devotion of sisters as they supported each other through their studies. Top swimmer Lily had to juggle her studies with a rigorous training regime six days a week with the support of Poppy. And Lily was on hand to help her sister when she missed prolonged periods of school through ill health. They both secured mainly grade 8s and 9s. Lily said: “I really like it here, the teachers are lovely and they have helped me throughout.” Poppy added: “It’s been amazing for me. The support I have received from everyone has been incredible. All the teachers want to help you as much as possible.” Both plan to study geography and English at St John’s. Lily will also study biology and Poppy art.
Footballer Sam Wilkinson, of Bishop Auckland, achieved his goal after achieving 10 GCSEs including two 9s. Also a successful athlete at county level he will study maths, computer science and PE at sixth form. “It has been a great environment in which to learn with great staff,” he said.
George Best, 15, of Bishop Auckland, had nothing but praise for his school after securing eight GSCEs. The 15-year-old, who wants to be a teacher, said: “The best decision I have ever made in my life is coming here. I wouldn’t change it for the world.” He will stay on at sixth form to study sociology, geography and English.
For Sri Lankan Imaadh Rizan, 17, results day was something to shout about after he achieved five GCSEs, including English, after joining the school last October unable to speak much of the language.
Head teacher Lisa Byron said: “These are the school’s best ever results and we are overwhelmed with the amazing achievements of our young people. They have shown tremendous resilience and determination to succeed despite having to face the challenges of COVID at the beginning of their education with us.
“Staff have been dedicated and have worked tirelessly to support our young people who have flourished and excelled under our guidance. We are so proud particularly as this comes on the back of a good Ofsted. I must also thank our parents and families for their continued support over the years. We can’t wait to see how our students soar to even greater heights at St John’s Sixth Form and beyond.”