Pupils across Penarth have received their GCSE results after another academic year disrupted by the pandemic.

This year's assessment process has been different to previous years, as examinations were cancelled in response to the pandemic and replaced with teacher assessments.

Staff at Stanwell School said the day was a "proud moment", with 48% of students gaining five or more A* to A grades, and 29 pupils achieving 10 or more A* grades.

"GCSE Results Day 2021 marked the culmination of a challenging year in which adaptability and resilience as well as diligence were key features.

"The students responded with determination to all the changes they faced and took the opportunities presented to them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through a variety of assessments.

"Teaching staff were delighted by the excellent standards achieved in all subject areas and this is reflected in the outstanding results once again achieved."

Head of Year 11, Mr J Ovens, said the students had shown "true character".

"We are so proud of the year group, even though it's been a tough year with a lot of uncertainty for them they have shown true character in working to the best of their abilities and achieving the superb results we are celebrating today.

"My colleagues and I would also like to thank all the parents and carers for their work alongside staff to support and guide the pupils through this period."

Mr J Mansfield, Deputy Headteacher said: "Stanwell Year 11 students have excelled once again after a year full of hard work both on school site and at home through online learning and revision.

"The results they have achieved equip them to move on to the next phase of their lives and we are delighted that the vast majority have opted to stay on at school for sixth form studies."

At St Cyres School, deputy head Rob Bruton congratulated students.

"A massive well done to you all on your achievements in extremely difficult circumstances! You all should be very proud," he said.

Across Wales, 28.7% of students got an A or A* this year, compared to 25.5% in 2020 and 18.4% in 2019, whilst 74% received grades between A* - C.