The Anthony Gell student is taking up a place at Oxford University to read chemistry after achieving five grade As, in maths, physics, chemistry, French and general studies.

He said: "I'm very happy, it feels great. I'm looking forward to going to Oxford to study the subject I've chosen in great depth and experience university life."

Kate Etheridge, from the Wirksworth school, was also accepted into Oxford, where she will study modern languages.

Anthony Gell achieved its best ever results with an overall pass rate of 98 per cent, of which nearly a quarter were grade A and 64 per cent C and above.

Headteacher David Baker said he was delighted with the results, adding: "Our students have worked incredibly hard to gain these results and I am very pleased that so many of them have got into the universities of their choice".

Sheffield University was popular with Anthony Gell students with others taking up places in Edinburgh, London and Sussex.

Mr Baker added: "It is always pleasing to see young people in this community fulfilling their potential. We have students with five grade As and others for whom two or three passes is a fantastic achievement. I wish them all the very best of luck for the future".