Pupils at a north Norfolk high school are encouraging upcoming GSCE students to “work hard” after receiving results they are "very pleased" with. 

Teenagers at Fakenham Academy have said they are pleased with their results and also revealed advice and study tricks for the next exam cohort.

Zanzi Pearce and Lucy Wills-Gillings said the last two years have been overwhelming at times but setting small rewards has helped. 

Lucy said: “It was always helpful to have something to look forward to after studying for a couple of hours. 

Lucy Wills-Gillings (left) and Zanzi Pearce (right) are encouraging upcoming GCSE students to work hard, it pays off.Lucy Wills-Gillings (left) and Zanzi Pearce (right) are encouraging upcoming GCSE students to work hard, it pays off. (Image: Newsquest)
“I like having a nice drink like a coffee or a coke. That keeps me going.” 

While the 16-year-olds also advised to work hard and not miss lessons, they also believe in making the most of the time outside of studying. 

Lucy said: “Enjoy time with friends and relax well so that you’re re-energised for when you study.”

Bertie Ancell, 16, agrees. 

Bertie Ancell is happy with his results but says students should put in the effort from the beginning.Bertie Ancell is happy with his results but says students should put in the effort from the beginning. (Image: Newsquest)
He said he was “really pleased” with his results but wished he had worked harder in year 10. 

Bertie said: “I didn’t study as hard as I could have but I’m really pleased with the results anyway. 

“Just to say to the next students, don’t wait until year 11 to knuckle down. Bad habits are harder to break so get to it as soon as you can. It’ll be worth it.”

Gavin Green, headteacher of Fakenham Academy, said this year’s results were a testament to how hard the students worked. 

“In all my years of teaching, I don’t think I’ve ever known a year of students to work as hard as this year’s did. 

“We had Saturday School for them and there was always an average of 50 students there.

"So I think their hard work paid off.”

Gavin Green is proud of this year's students and wishes them the best in their next ventures.Gavin Green is proud of this year's students and wishes them the best in their next ventures. (Image: Newsquest)
Mr Green said Fakenham Academy’s results in 9-5 in English increased this year, and so did the percentage of top grades. 

He said: “A huge thanks to our trust and to the staff here who have been so supportive of the students.

"Well done everyone.”