YOUNG people in Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth and Loddon were celebrating yesterday as local sixth forms marked another year of superb A-level results.Two years of hard graft culminated in ecstatic joy for many students at the Sir John Leman High School, Bungay High School and Langley High School as they gazed at their grades in the August sun.

YOUNG people in Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth and Loddon were celebrating yesterday as local sixth forms marked another year of superb A-level results.

Two years of hard graft culminated in ecstatic joy for many students at the Sir John Leman High School, Bungay High School and Langley High School as they gazed at their grades in the August sun.

It was the first year of the new A* grade, which has been brought in to highlight the very best students.

However, there was little sign of the pressure showing as a number of students managed to achieve the difficult grade.

The Sir John Leman showed a significant improvement on last year's results, with Bungay and Langley also doing doing very well.

Jeremy Rowe, headteacher at the Sir John Leman, said: “I'm thrilled. The figures speak for themselves. It's a huge step up for us. There's something to be proud of here, there's no two ways about that.

“It's been very difficult for the kids this year. There's a recession on and there's less jobs about so I'm relieved we've had a good year because it's harder for them. It's more difficult for this year group to get into university so what we do is so important.”

Meanwhile Steph Kirk, head of the sixth form, was also very proud. “They did really well. The majority have managed to get into their university place so I'm really pleased with that.”

Bungay High School also reported excellent results. Head Sean O'Neill said: “Bungay High School is pleased with the results of our students again this year. They are a testament to the hard work and dedication of students, staff and parents.

“This year the points per candidate are the highest ever achieved at the school. We are working very closely with students to ensure that those who are planning to go to university get the choices they want as the competition for places this year is fierce.”

Dominic Findlay, headteacher at Langley High School in Loddon, said: “We are all delighted with the outstanding results achieved by our senior students and staff this year. The number of students gaining A*/A has improved to 33pc which is a fantastic achievement whilst our pass rate is as high as ever. I would like to wish all our leavers the very best for the future as they move on to the next stage of their career.”