Today, pupils celebrated successful grades and university places as Principal Will Scott credited teaching staff for providing consistency in their education, in what has been a challenging year.  

Head girl Victoria Riley spoke of ‘solidarity in the year group’ and unwavering support as she received two A* grades in German and French and an A in Geography, allowing her to accept a place at the University of St Andrews to study Modern Languages. 

“Over these past two years Dame Allan’s has not only supported us academically, but staff have taught us not to look too far ahead and to keep perspective when faced with uncertainty,” said the 18-year-old from Morpeth.

“Dame Allan’s provides so many opportunities and despite Covid pulling everything back, what we have actually seen is more solidarity in the year group and a great sense of togetherness. I feel honoured to have been part of this year.”  

Mr Scott, who came to Dame Allan’s as Principal in September 2020, said pupils had once again outperformed and made the school exceptionally proud. 

He said: “Despite the challenges our students have faced, Dame Allan’s has been the constant in their lives and our staff have remained consistent in the exceptionally high level of education we strive to provide. 

“Students have shown wonderful resilience and determination, while staff have been flexible and forward-thinking, and these remarkable results today are testament to those joint efforts.” 

Among those celebrating was Emily Forrester, from Gosforth, who achieved a straight set of A* grades in Maths, Biology and Chemistry and accepted a place to study Biology at Durham University. 

While a large proportion of her studies were undertaken online during lockdown, Emily not only thrived but also gave her own time to tutor a Year 9 pupil who had been struggling in maths and science. 

“It has been a different and difficult year for everyone, having to do a considerable amount of learning online or while wearing a mask,” explained Emily. 

“Thankfully, the teachers were engaging and gave us the best support possible. I was able to do the same for a Year 9 girl who needed some extra tutoring as part of the school’s mentoring programme.”

Also collecting her results was Beth Dean, from Newcastle, who achieved three A* grades in Biology, Geography and PE and will go on to study Ecology and Conservation at Lancaster University. 

Beth said: “Lockdown wasn’t easy, especially working and revising in just one room at home, but the teaching support was fantastic.

“Over the last two years I’ve really developed an interest in the environment and its conservation, and the teachers have allowed me to explore that and given me the confidence to take a path I’m interested in.”  

Another top-grade student, Dori An, achieved three A* grades in Business, Maths and Spanish and an A in Further Maths. He intends to take a year out to work and travel before pursuing a career in the finance sector. 

The Jarrow-based student said: “I’m so happy with my results and feel that since starting here in Year 7 I’ve really developed as a person.”