DEPARTING pupils at a Dalton school left a lasting legacy as they achieved the highest GCSE results in their school's history.

Dowdales School is celebrating after reporting a 69 per cent A*-C pass rate in English and maths, an increase of five per cent from the previous academic year.

Seven students in total received all A* and A grades, including head girl Caitlin Fawkes, who achieved standout grades as she achieved nine A*s and one A, including an A* distinction in further maths.

She said: "I am so happy, it's such a relief and all of the stress has just gone knowing that I don't have to worry about any more exams for another year."

Callum Caldwell achieved three As, four Bs and a C to secure a place at Ulverston Victoria High School's sixth form to study history, religious studies and law.

He said: "I managed to get my C in maths which I am really chuffed with. I struggled with maths and had to put in a lot of hours to get the grade that I needed so I am glad that all of the hard work has paid off."

Headteacher Julie O'Connor said: "They are the best results we have ever had from a brilliant year group and we are absolutely delighted for them.

"Today is of course always tinged with a bit of sadness because you get to know them over the last five years.

"However, that sadness is outweighed by the success that they have achieved and we always want to nurture talent and give them the aspirations to know that they can go on to achieve their dreams and be anything that they want to be in life."

One teacher enjoyed her final moments at the school which gave her her first-break in the profession as she prepared to say goodbye to her science labs to travel across the globe.

Melissa Khali, who taught science at Dowdales School on two separate occasions, is leaving to teach in countries such as Thailand and Vietnam.

She said: "I am very emotional today but they are amazing kids and this is an amazing school. This was where I first learned to teach and I feel as if this school has given me the confidence to go on to do other things.

"I saw these kids go into their exams and I have taught a lot of them from Year Seven. I have a lot of memories of them and I have effectively grown up with these children and seen them develop into young adults."

One brave student also agreed to open his results live for the North-West Evening Mail. Jack Harvey nervously opened up his envelope to reveal fantastic grades as he secured a string of A* and A grades.

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