Pupils make the grade in capital schools

"We wish all our students embarking on their university careers continued success."

At Hasmonean, the number of passes at A* or A grade were up to 47.6 per cent and a quarter of students achieved at least three A grades.

Two pupils attained five A-levels. Raphy Meyer scored four A*s and one A and is going to yeshivah. "I was hoping for these results and thank God I got them," Raphy said. "I did put in quite a lot of work.

"I chose to study five subjects because I wanted to keep as many options open as possible. I think I want to study medicine but I'm still not sure. I'll probably apply to a London university."

Jacob Rashbass had one A* and four As and will be studying at Cambridge, as will Hasmo girl Gavriella Goldberg.

Executive head Rabbi David Meyer said the improved results reflected the impact of the new school leadership. "These results are especially pleasing given the true comprehensive intake of the Hasmonean sixth form."

Heads of schools Andrew McCluskey and Rachel Fink pointed out that the exam performance had been attained "whilst our students have continued to devote their time to their Jewish studies and to supporting the local community".

Pupils of Yavneh College in Borehamwood passed 44 per cent of exams at A* and A grade and 74 per cent at B grade or better. Joshua Pyzer was the star student with two A*s and three As in maths, further maths, biology, chemistry and physics. Head Dr Dena Coleman said: "We are delighted that students who chose Yavneh for their sixth-form education have been rewarded with such an excellent outcome."

In Hackney, the Chabad Lubavitch schools' results were markedly up with more than 85 per cent of students obtaining an A or B result. Senior girls' schood head Rabbi Shmuel Lew said the performance was "a tribute to our passionate and committed staff".