Smiles all round as Shebbear College pupils celebrate GCSE success

There were plenty of smiles at Shebbear College this morning as pupils celebrated their GCSE results. The cohort achieved success across a wide range of subjects, with many delighted to secure the grades needed for their chosen Sixth Form pathways and future ambitions, opening up exciting opportunities ahead.

"GCSE Results Day is always one of my favourite days of the year because it is all about our pupils and celebrating their achievements," said Charlie Jenkins, head of Shebbear College. "There was a great atmosphere around the school this morning and it was fantastic to see so many pupils pleased with their results."

Among the highest achievers were Dylan Ferrigni-Monfils, who secured an incredible five Grade 9s, two Grade 8s and three Grade 7s. Bethany Atkinson, Tichy Sanders, Ethan Lim, Abigail Richardson and Kaia Macartney also celebrated outstanding results, each achieving nine Grades 9-5 across a range of subjects.

“I started feeling a little bit anxious when I got into school and saw everyone, that's when I realised it was real!" said Dylan. "But the anxiety passed very quickly and I'm very happy with my results! I got a 9 in Further Maths, which is my biggest takeaway. I'm very excited... I might go home and frame it, or get a tattoo!"

Dylan, who also travelled to Peru earlier this summer on the Camps International Expedition, is looking forward to joining Shebbear College Sixth Form in September, where he will study A-levels in Maths, Physics, Further Maths and Italian.

Fellow Peru traveller Tichy Sanders will also progress to the sixth form in September after achieving an impressive set of GCSE results. Tichy has balanced her academic studies with her equestrian commitments as one of Shebbear College's star riders.

"I was so nervous this morning, I really didn't want to open my envelope," she said. "When I did, though, it was all good. I'm really pleased with my results."

Ethan Lim was delighted when he opened his envelope this morning. Ethan has successfully balanced his studies with a passion for music and the performing arts, currently working towards Grade 7 in piano and Grade 8 in singing, as well as playing the guitar. This year, he also starred as Eddie in the Senior School production of Sister Act and completed the Ten Tors Challenge as part of the 45-mile team.

“I was quite nervous... not as much as my sister though, who for some reason was more nervous than me!” said Ethan. “I got what I wanted so I’m happy, and I’m going into the Sixth Form to study A-levels in September.

"I am incredibly proud of everything Form 5 have achieved, not only in the classroom but across all areas of school life," added Mr Jenkins. "These young people have thrown themselves into every opportunity available to them, and it has been wonderful to watch them grow in confidence and character throughout their time in the Senior School.

"Today is about celebrating their achievements and looking ahead to the exciting next chapter. We look forward to welcoming many of them into our Sixth Form in September and wish every member of the year group the very best for the future."