It has been a nerve-racking and emotional morning for students in South East Cornwall as they find out how they have done in their GCSE exams.

As results come in this morning, Liskeard and Saltash say they are delighted with the outcomes for their 16 year olds. A third of students or more in both schools have achieved at least one of the top grade 7s or higher.

With new course content and a new system of grading using numbers, rather than the traditional grades, in many of the subjects, it has been tough for schools and parents to get to grips with what the results mean.

‘Headteacher at Liskeard Alex Lingard said: ‘We are absolutely delighted with our students’ results. We think the students have made excellent progress compared to other students across the country.

‘The students have handled the changes to the GCSEs, and the pressure that comes with the numerous exams they now have to take, incredibly well.’

Cornwall Council’s message to students is that whatever your results, there are more options on the table than ever before to make your next move a successful one.

Sally Hawken, the Council’s Cabinet member for Children and Wellbeing, said: ‘Congratulations to all those collecting their GCSE results today - I hope the hard work has paid off and you have achieved the results you wanted.

‘As well as students, I’d like to give praise to teachers, staff, governors, parents and carers for their role in helping young people achieve their potential.

‘Collecting GCSE results can be an emotional time, however young people now have access to more pathways than ever before.’

The options open to 16 year olds include staying in full-time education at school or FE college, work-based learning such as an apprenticeship, or part-time education combined with employment, self-employment or voluntary work.

We’ll be publishing a full report and pictures on GCSE results from all the schools in South East Cornwall in tomorrow’s Cornish Times.