THURROCK schools are performing above the national average for state-funded schools, GCSE results have shown.

School performance figures show Thurrock’s secondary schools are maintaining their position.

The average result for the Thurrock area is 59.4 per cent and the national average for state-funded schools is 59.3 per cent.

Cllr John Kent, leader of Thurrock Council, pictured, said: “Our priority has always been education and improving standards and it is great to see we’re above average for pupils achieving the benchmark figure of five GCSE passes at A* to C including English and maths.”

Boys’ performance fell by two per cent this year, mirroring the national trend, but girls improved their performance slightly.

Mr Kent added: “I would like to pass on my congratulations to all the young people, their teachers and parents who have worked so hard.”

Grays Convent High School saw 63 per cent of their pupils achieve at least five A* to C passes at GCSE, or equivalents, including English and maths.

Headteacher Anne-Marie Brister said the school focuses on GCSE exams rather than vocational courses.

She said: “If you compare just GCSE results, not including equivalents, our school is well above the national average and towards the top of the Thurrock table.

“At Grays Convent we offer a traditional and challenging curriculum with every girl sitting an average of 10 GCSEs.

“I am proud of our pupils and our teachers for the hard work and effort that takes place every day at the convent to achieve these results and we are grateful too for the support of our parents who work in partnership with us to achieve the very best for their daughters.”

Nicola Graham, Harris Academy principal, said: “The results at Harris Academy Chafford Hundred reflect the hard work and dedication of all the staff who work tirelessly to give our students the best opportunities and support.

“They also reflect the hard work of our students who truly deserve their success. We are delighted that many of these students are now able to study in our Sixth Form so that we can maintain our strong relationships with the students and parents, who always support our endeavours.”