The true measure of success at a school is not league tables, but the fact students are doing the best they can, according to a headteacher.

That was the message from Stephen Wyatt, in charge at Alec Hunter High School in Braintree, as he prepared for the annual awards evening yesterday.

Top students were congratulated and presented with prizes for their achievements in exams, sport, the arts and service to the community.

More than 80 pupils bagged honours.

Mr Wyatt said: "School league tables encourage misleading comparisons. The true measure of their success was that they had achieved the best grades they could.

"Individuals with statements of learning difficulties who had passed their GCSEs were just as much a cause for celebration as those who had gained A-grades."

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