Headteacher Paul Buck said students and staff had put in a lot of hard work resulting in the improvement.

"I am absolutely delighted, said Mr Buck.

"Overall these are very positive results and will hopefully act as a springboard for life in the new school.

"It will give a lot of optimism to the current Year 10s who will be sitting their GCSEs next year."

Portland's star student was Michael Wood, of Dunstan Crescent, who bagged eight A*s, two As, and two Bs.

"I am really, really chuffed with how I have done," said the 16-year-old.

"I am now going on to sixth form to study English, maths, and biology. After that I would like to go to university to study English literature."

"I would like to thank my teachers for all the help and support they have given me over the last couple of years."

Despite achieving three A grades Dale Bevan was slightly disappointed with his results.

"I think I could have done better particularly in the science subjects," said Dale, of Shrewsbury Road, Manton.

"But from September I am going to work much harder so I can get the best grades I can in my A-levels."

"Overall I am pleased and I am going out for a meal tonight to celebrate."

Christa Ratcliffe, from Shireoaks, was buoyant after achieving one B and four C's.

"I think I have done well. I am going into sixth form in September but I am not 100 per cent sure which subjects I am going to be studying yet."