An academy in Barnet is celebrating its best ever GCSE results.

Pupils and staff from the Totteridge Academy in Barnet Lane, Barnet, are celebrating as 67 per cent of students achieved five ore more A* to C grades, including a four or above in both English and Maths under the new measures, which is 27 per cent rise from August 2016.

Many received results higher than expectations amid nationwide fears over the new system, with Head Boy Matthew Evans achieving grade nine in English Language, English Literature and maths, five A*s and one A, including a perfect mark of 400 out of 400 in graphics.

Principal Chris Fairbairn said: "It is a privilege to be here today giving the students their well-deserved results and celebrating their success.

"The commitment and enthusiasm that they have shown will stand them in good stead for the future and inspire the younger students here to follow their lead."

The school joined United Learning and Principal Fairbairn took up post after the results last year.

Another incredible achievement belongs to Ortensa Paci, who joined the school from Italy at the beginning of Year 10 and learnt English as an additional language.

She achieved one grade eight, one grade seven, two A*s and two As.

Dame Sally Coates, director of secondary education at United Learning, said: "This is a watershed year for The Totteridge Academy, with such a significant improvement on their headline measure."

She added: "It serves as an inspiration for other schools – demonstrating just how much is possible in only a year."