Odessa - Top marks in Russian, Art, and Science for Ukrainian refugee Odessa

A talented young linguist and scientist is celebrating her GCSE results after fleeing the war in Ukraine three years ago. Odessa Poleena joined St Michael’s Catholic Academy, in Billingham, in Year 9 after moving to the UK with her family when war broke. There she excelled at her favourite subjects of Russian, Art, and Sciences. Odessa said: “I struggled with art at first, but I kept working at it and got better- now my mum keeps all my work at home!

“I am very happy with my results – I have achieved beyond my expectations. I am grateful to all the teachers at St Michael’s and all the effort they put in!”

She will now progress to Middlesbrough College to study Criminology, Human Biology, Psychology and Forensic Science, with the aim of one day working in forensic science or criminal psychology. “I’m curious about why people act the way they do,” she said. “I want to understand the reasons behind it.”

Sonny - Boxing role model fights his way to GCSE success

A champion boxer has found success outside the ring with his GCSE exam results. Boxing champion Sonny Hollingsworth balanced his studies at St Michael’s Catholic Academy, in Billingham with a boxing career that took him all over the world to fight for England. His greatest triumph came at the BOXAM International Tournament in Spain, where he defeated opponents from all over Europe to be crowned champ. He said: “When I won the tournament in Spain, it was one of the best days of my life. St Michael’s have been so supportive with my boxing, and  teachers always wish me luck and ask how they can watch the match.”

Despite his demanding schedule, Sonny remains committed to his studies, with an apprenticeship lined up to become an electrician – and an ambition to turn professional when he moves into the adult boxing category. Clare Humble, Headteacher, said: “The younger students really look up to him for how much of an inspiration he’s been with his dedication to boxing and school work. He’s been a fantastic role model at St Michael’s, and we wish him the best for the future – in and out of the ring.”

Paris - Exam success adds another jewel to beauty queen’s crown

A young beauty queen and charity fundraiser is among those celebrating their GCSE results today. Paris Connor shone in English Language and Spanish at St Michael’s Catholic Academy, in Billingham, balancing her studies with raising money for worthy causes.

For the past six years, Paris has taken part in charity pageants raising funds for organisations including CAFOD, food banks, and The Hygiene Bank, which provides toiletries for women in need. Now she’s crowned her achievements with strong GCSE results – including a Grade 8 in Religious Education.

She said: “I love to do pageants because it’s brought me a lot of confidence and allowed me to help others. I don’t think I’d be a student leader at St Michael’s if I hadn’t done pageants.”

She has also organised charity events including bake sales and football matches. As a member of the student leadership team, she also helps run the school’s ‘What Went Well Wednesday’ initiative, encouraging younger pupils to take pride in their work. She now plans to study Psychology, Criminology and Law at Middlesbrough College, with university to follow.

Theo - Top grades put Billingham Head Boy on course for Oxbridge

The Head Boy of St Michael’s Catholic Academy, in Billingham, was one of the students delighted with their GCSE results today. Theo Linton achieved Grade 9 in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, and will now move on to study Maths, Physics, Further Maths and Business at Stockton Sixth Form College.

He said: “I wanted to be Head Boy because I’m proud of St Michael’s and wanted to give something back. I want to say thank you to the school and the teachers, who have given me everything I need to do to achieve my best.”

During his time at St Michael’s, Theo played a leading role in school life, helping organise events, taking part in the school’s ‘What Went Well Wednesday’ and ‘Curriculum Champions’ programmes, and raising £1,500 towards the Year 11 Leaver’s prom. He now hopes to head to Oxford or Cambridge University after college.