THE hard work has paid off for Dudley A-level students as they nervously ripped open envelopes to reveal record results.

There were plenty of smiles at Dudley College this morning as for the third year in a row, the pass rate has increased - 98.3 per cent compared to last year's 98.1 per cent.

Brainy students registered a 100 per cent rate in 27 of the 35 subjects taught at the Ednam Road A-level campus and there was also a significant rise in the number of students achieving A* and A –C grades.

Amongst the Dudley Sixth cohort are a number of successful students who have attained high grades in several subjects, including Katie Guest from Oldbury who has secured her place at King’s College, London to study global health and science medicine after getting two A*s in sociology and history and an A in psychology.

Planning to study anthropology at either the University College London or the London School of Economics is Molly Tulloch, from Dudley, who got an A* in sociology, A in English literature and B in history.

Principal Lowell Williams, said: “Today’s results are evidence of the commitment and dedication of our students and staff alike.

"They confirm that young people from the local area studying at Dudley Sixth can progress to some of the top universities in the country and a successful career.

“Along with all the Dudley Sixth staff, I would like to congratulate our A level students, and am confident that their time with us has provided them with a solid foundation on which to build a successful future.”

Meanwhile, youngsters at Bishop Milner Catholic College were delighted with their results, with 48 per cent of students achieving A* to B grades and 75 per cent gaining A* to C grades.

Overall there was a 99 per cent of students passed with A-E grades and two of the top performing teens included Joseph Hancox, who achieved one A*, one A, two Bs and one C and Aaron Ginder who achieved one distinction star, one A, one B and one C.

Acting principal, Richard May, said: “Following much hard work over the last two years, the directors and staff of Bishop Milner would like to congratulate all of our sixth form students on their well-deserved examination results.

"We wish them every happiness and further success for the future."