Science and maths results at Monmouth Comprehensive School this year bucked national trends with the best-ever results recorded at the school.

Nationally though, top grades in these two core subjects, along with English, have decreased.

This was not the case at Monmouth Comprehensive School. Overall the five A*- C across the school rose to 89 per cent, with particular success in maths and science.

Mrs Osman, faculty leader for mathematics, said: "We are rightly proud of the results of our students.

"At A-level and AS-level last week, students outstripped national averages, the same now with GCSE mathematics.

"Students have achieved a great deal of success. We have currently the highest number of students studying mathematics at A-level and many are going on to study mathematics at degree level."

The Head of Science, Mr S Pearson, was delighted with this year's results.

"We have seen students succeed in a variety of pathways in science. We have also maintained our traditional separate science courses in biology, chemistry and physics, as well as providing a variety of courses that appeal to different students.

"Science continues to be a popular option at A-level with many students going on to read science courses at university."

The school is in its third year of offering the Welsh Baccalaureate to all students in years 10 and 11. This year, 84 per cent of students in Year 11 achieved the qualification.

"The Baccalaureate is made up of a range of qualifications, including Literacy and Numeracy. The qualification recognises all aspects of a student's skills and is seen as an excellent preparation for further study and the world of work.

Among the overwhelming majority of students who achieved superb results, there were students who achieved the highest grades across all their subjects: Michaela Bowen, Michael Ellis, Max Goodridge, Matilda Greenstreet, Joseph Hopkins, Miles Isted S'Jacob, Ellie Kevill, Rebecca Large, Paige Lewis, Zoe McCarroll, Chloe Miller, Kirsty McIntosh, Ross McCoard, Emily Pardington, Amelia Ralphs, Nia Roberts, Sally Stapleton, Milly Tudball, Ruthie Walters, Thea Ward and Jack Whittaker.

This year, as in the past two years, no student left without a qualification.

Vaughn Davies, the headteacher, said: "Students and staff have worked incredibly hard to achieve these excellent results.

"The support of parents and the community is essential in ensuring the best outcomes for our young people.

"On Thursday 12th September, we will be holding our annual awards' evening, where we can all come together to celebrate our students' success across a wide range of subjects, learning and extra-curricular achievements."