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Eagerly-awaited GCSE and GNVQ results were opened by thousands of students across Medway on Thursday.

For pupils at Greenacre School, in Walderslade Road, the wait was even more agonising as they opened their results in the glare of the media.

Top performer Matthew Leech, 16, from Lordswood, achieved nine A and five B grades.

Headteacher Andrew Reese said: “These results represent the best ever achieved by the school. Much credit must go to the boys who worked so hard, their extremely talented teachers and support staff who managed to get the very best out of them whilst not forgetting parents, who have actively supported the school for the past five years”.

Around 3,500 pupils across Medway sat their exams at the beginning of the summer, with many hoping they will lead on to a place at sixth form, college, training or employment.

Cllr Les Wicks, responsible for children’s services, said: “All our teachers deserve thanks and appreciation for their valuable contribution for the success of our students.

“These students now have the chance to look at staying on into the sixth form, going into training with one of our local providers, or getting a job. Whichever they choose, they all have the opportunity to do well in life and in Medway.”

Rose Collinson, Medway Council’s director of children and adults, said: “These results are hard won and provide a very real passport to future learning and earning.

“Across Medway, there are very real benefits for students because schools and other education providers work together to make sure every young person has clear pathways for progression.”

More GCSE coverage in the print edition of Monday's Medway Messenger