STUDENTS at Budmouth Technology College celebrated top results and the end of a nervous wait to secure university places.

The sixth-formers topped last year’s pass rate and for the first year achieved the new A* A-level grades.

A total of 98.3 per cent of A-level examinations or their equivalent were passed, including 42 per cent with A* to B grades.

Stuart McPhail, of Radipole, was the success story of the day when he claimed a full set of A*’s in physics, chemistry, biology and maths.

The 18-year-old, who is off to Downing College at Cambridge in October to study medicine, said: “You never expect to do that well so I’m very pleased.

“It was a lot of hard work, I needed two A*s and an A to do the course.

“First stop now is Wetherspoons for breakfast then I’m going out to celebrate.”

Robert Shaw is also off to Cambridge to study natural sciences, having achieved A* grades in chemistry and physics and an A grade in maths.

Rob, 18, of Wyke Regis, said: “I’m hugely relieved, it’s a great weight off the chest. My back-up plan was to go to Bristol to do physics if I didn’t get the grades.

“I’m really glad, it took a lot of effort.”

Gareth Williams, 18, of Southill, achieved a triple-grade distinction in the BTEC national diploma in sport course and plans to spend a gap year working and travelling before going to the University of Wales Institute in Cardiff to study sport.

He added: “I’m just glad it’s all done, I’ve got my results and a place ready for next year.”

Erin Miller, 18, of Chapelhay, is looking forward to a year of work experience in the Verne Prison and Weymouth Magistrates Court – if her applications are successful.

She achieved two As in law and English language and B in English literature and hopes to kick-start a career in law.

India Carter, 18, of Chickerell cried tears of happiness when she scooped an A* in English literature as well as A in English language and B in French. She said: “It was better than I hoped.”

Mark Henman, director of sixth form at Budmouth, said: “It’s a big relief this time around, given the pressure on university places.

“We are very proud that our students have once again exceeded targets.

“98.3 per cent of A-level examinations or their equivalent were passed and 42 per cent of these were passed with A* to B grades.

“It has been well documented that in the present economic climate, getting into university this year is particularly competitive.

“However, I am pleased to say that the vast majority of Budmouth applicants have stepped up to the mark and achieved the grades required to claim their place, even on the most sought-after courses.”