A HEADTEACHER has spoken of his pride at seeing students heading off to pursue their dreams as they picked up their A-Level results.

Schools across the Lake District and Furness were packed with students nervously awaiting their results.

Inside tightly sealed brown envelopes were a collection of grades that would determine the futures of dozens of young men and women who attend the Lakes School, in Windermere.

Andy Cunningham, headteacher at the school, said: "We're really pleased. What's really important for students this time is whether they have the results that they need to carry on with the next stage of their life. This morning we've had a group of very happy young men and women."

Some of the happy students included Stephanie Scarbro who was awarded two A*s and two Bs; Matthew Clark who got one A* and two As; and one of this year's outstanding performers, Ben Walton, who received an incredible five As.

Mr Cunningham continued: "We have a large number of students who scored the A and B grades, that's great news to us and great news for those going off to their preferred universities.

"We've got students going far and wide which is really nice. They are going off to Lancaster and Newcastle, but also further afield to Liverpool and London."

One student, Ellie Matterson, who was awarded an A, B and C grade is taking a large leap in her studies. She has been accepted into Lancaster University to study international business management, a course which will see her travel to Northeastern University in Boston, USA.

Although results day is a time for students to celebrate their hard work, the hours of work and dedication put in by teaching staff was singled out for praise.

Mr Cunningham said: "Our staff came in and share in today's enjoyment. They are really really pleased, they develop a strong bond with all the children that we teach, but there is something about A-Levels that teachers really love. They are proud to see the students go off and see them follow their passions."

To read more about the results from across our area and the fantastic success stories of the day, visit our website at www.nwemail.co.uk