Pupils at Sir John Leman High School, have been praised for overcoming the “distress” caused by the cancellation of many exams in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Head boy Ben Mensah achieved two A*s and two As, and will now study religion and theology at Durham University.

He said: “In uncertain times, it is amazing to have some clarity and good news. We all have bright futures ahead of us.”

With three As, Maddy Workman will be heading to Oxford University to study biology, saying: “I am so relieved and so happy that it worked our better than I thought.”

The Waveney Valley Academies Trust, which also includes Stowmarket High School, will not be releasing results this year following the cancellation of many exams.

In a joint statement, headteacher Michael Taylor and trust CEO Jeremy Rowe, along with Stowmarket High School headteacher Dave Lee-Allan, said: “As a group of schools, we would like to congratulate and praise the students across our schools who reacted so well to the abrupt end to their studies.

“They contributed so much to our communities during their time in our schools and they exemplify all that is good about young people.

“Each grade was decided based on a rigorous process, involving teams of teachers analysing school work, assessments and results in ‘mock’ exams where appropriate.

“These predicted grades were sent into the exam boards who have ultimately decided the final outcome, using historical statistical data they hold about each school, set against a national standardisation process.

“Despite the distress caused by this year’s circumstances, today’s results have rewarded our students for their dedication and commitment to their studies.

“Although they have been generated in an atypical way, captured in today’s grades is a recognition of the accumulation of considerable knowledge, understanding, skill and experience.

“Students should go forward with confidence in their grades, reassured that their endeavours have been recognised and rewarded.”

In 2019, the 71pc of pupils achieved an A* to C grade.

The statement added: “In light of the changed situation this summer, and the government’s decision not to publish any results, we are not providing any external statistics for any of our secondary schools this year.

“The wider community will be well aware of the commitment and strong track record of our schools.

“This year, it is enough simply to say thank you to our staff, our parents and all members of our wider community for their unstinting support, and to congratulate our students for their brilliant achievements today.

“We wish all of our young people every success and happiness for their futures.”

Lily Baker, who earned AAB grades, will now study marketing at Lancaster University, saying: “I am pleasantly surprised about my results.”

Staying local, Michael Brown will head to UAE to study philosophy, saying: “I am glad all the waiting and uncertainty is over, and I am glad I got what I needed for the next step.”