More than 3,000 pupils across Havering received their much-anticipated GCSE results this morning (21 August 2025).
Students gathered at their schools early this morning to find out if they had achieved the grades they were hoping for.
There were celebrations at Hornchurch High School, where more than 130 young people took their exams.
Councillor Oscar Ford, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, visited the school to meet some of the students who were receiving their results.
“It was a real pleasure to see the students opening their envelopes to receive their results and to hear their inspiring plans for the future.
“Congratulations to all pupils who studied for their exams and for the hard work they put in to achieve their grades. I wish them the very best in whatever they decide to do next.”
Hornchurch High School is celebrating another year of impressive academic growth, with over 80% of entries graded between a nine and four, and over 30% of entries achieving between a nine and a seven.
Headteacher Serena Madhvani said:
“I couldn’t be prouder of our students. These fantastic achievements are a testament to their determination, thirst for knowledge and resilience over the past five years, supported every step of the way by our dedicated staff.
“A culture of encouragement, self-discipline, celebration, and embracing challenges lies at the heart of our learning community, and it’s this culture that drives our students’ success.”
Among those celebrating was Nicholas, who described himself as previously an average student who had been achieving grades 4 and 5, but who achieved grades 7 and 8s in his GCSEs.
“I just ‘locked in’ with the support of my teachers. My high-achieving girlfriend spurred me on to be the best I can be”, he said, of totally focusing on his studies.
“I have never got an 8 in my life!”
He plans to be an engineer and take the A-Level route, something he did not think was possible before.
Friends Amy and Olivia, opened their envelopes together and were over the moon with the results.
Amy received 10 GCSEs, grades 8 and 9, and has an academic scholarship at New Hall School Chelmsford School to do Maths, Economics and Geography.
Meanwhile Olivia gained nine GCSEs grades 7-9 and is off to sixth form to study Economics, Business and English Literature.
Niniola achieved nine out of 10 grade 9 GCSEs and is hoping to study for A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics at London Academy of Excellence.
Oliver gained nine GCSEs, eight of them at grade 9 and is heading for Havering Sixth Form College to study Maths, Psychology and Computer Science.
Oliver’s proud mum Julie said:
“It’s amazing. We knew he would do well. It is beyond expectation. I am extremely proud of him. He has worked very hard and deserves them.”
Councillor Ford added that for pupils who may not have received the grades they wanted, help and support is available.