Sunderland Echo

Amazing Alex proves to be a real academic star

GCSE RESULTS 2016 TO BUY ANY PHOTO VISIT SUNDERLAND­ECHO.COM AND CLICK THE ‘BUY A PHOTO’ TAB

- By Sue Kirby sue.kirby@jpress.co.uk Twitter: @suekirbyjp

Autistic youngster Alex Robson was the shining star at Farringdon Community Academy.

The 16-year-old, who joined the Allendale Road school’s autism provision unit in Year 7, scooped an incredible five A*s, an A* distinctio­n, five As and a B in his GCSE results.

Alex, who lives in Fulwell, said: “I am really pleased with my results. I have had a lot of support in the unit.”

When asked if he had done a lot of studying, the teenager replied: “Not really, I just have a very good memory.”

His proud mum, Judith, said she never thought she would see the day when Alex could achieve as much as he has because he struggled so muchwithth­estresseso­feveryday life.

The 50-year-old motherof-three said: “I didn’t know where on earth Alex was going to go to school when he left primary and then someone suggested Farringdon’s autism unit and it has been perfect for Alex.

“I really cannot thank everyone enough, the support he has had has been amazing.

“We never thought he would ever achieve so much.”

Alex is now heading to the Discovery School in Newcastle to study for his A-levels.

Howard Kemp, headteache­r at Farringdon Community Academy, said he is delighted with the performanc­e of all the students this year.

He said an amazing 23 Year 11 students gained at least a grade higher than they were predicted when they joined the school in every one of their GCSE subjects.

Mr Kemp said: “It is fantas- tic the progress the students have made.”

Overall, 76% of the students got A*-C in English and 75% got A*-C in maths, high leaps on last year, and 61% of students clinched five or more A*-C grades including maths and English, which is 17% higher than last year.

Mr Kemp said: “We are delighted with these headline figures, the result of hard work, persistenc­e and the unwavering belief that we are doing all the right things to support our students.

“Congratula­tions to our Class of 2016 for delivering such wonderful results, our best GCSE exam performanc­e ever.

“I would like to thank all of our hard-working staff who have shown great resilience and commitment.”

 ??  ?? Alex Robson and mum Judith.
Alex Robson and mum Judith.

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