Durrington students' exam pressure

Year 11 students at the school in The Boulevard have just completed their mock GCSE exams '” and they were given the chance to find out what it is like to receive results in preparation for when they take their GCSEs in the summer.

A packed hall of students listened to an inspirational speech by deputy head teacher Mark Anstiss, before opening their results envelopes to the sounds of squeals and groans.

Assistant head teacher Marion Harrington, who organised the event, said there had been a "fantastic response room the students."

She added: "They can now focus on taking control of their own future and working towards better results."

She went on to explain it was the first of a wide range of activities and events designed to motivate and support Durrington's students.

Oliver France, one of the students, said: "It opened my eyes about how much effort I need to put in.

"It made me think of where I am and where I really have to start working."