All the hard work and dedication paid off as pupils celebrated outstanding GCSE and IGCSE results at the Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools.

“I really didn’t want to get a B because my brother did so well in his GCSEs.At HMSG, 42.6 per cent of the cohort were awarded A*s and more than half of all candidates (57 per cent) achieved nine or more A*/A grades. Noa was the proud recipient of 11 A*s, including one in Japanese. And Pippa, who rowed for Wales this year and Great Britain in 2013, achieved nine A*s and one A grade. Pippa, whose older brother Will rows for GB, said: “I’m really pleased.

“I think rowing helps academically as well because it teaches you good time management.

“In the future I would like to do something with chemistry and biology.”

Both Schools switched to IGCSE in biology, chemistry, physics and history, a more rigorous examination equivalent to an old O level, to ensure all students were stretched and better able to face the challenges of A levels and university.

81.4 per cent of girls were awarded A*/As in maths, 90 per cent achieved A*/As in biology, 82.5 per cent were awarded A*/As in chemistry and 87.2 per cent received A*/As in physics. Caroline Pascoe, Headmistress, said: “I am hugely proud of the girls’ results.

“They have shattered the stereotype that girls do not shine in maths and the sciences.

“I would like to congratulate all of the students – their dedication and focus never ceases to inspire me.

“Their futures are full of endless possibilities, and I look forward to watching them take on the challenges that lie ahead in sixth form.”