HUNDREDS of excited pupils were celebrating at Victoria High as the school smashed its all time record for GCSE results.

Head teacher Denis Fay said 2012's results were the best in the school's history, with eight students gaining all A*s.

This goes against the national trend where top grades have fallen for the first time since the qualification was introduced in 1986.

"It's been an incredible journey whilst working here," said Mr Fay, who has been at the Ulverston school for four years.

"And this year shows that we are continuing our phenomenal progress.

"Results days are great; there is a real buzz in this school. We wish all of our students every success in the future whether they stay on at our sixth form or go on to pastures new. It's a fantastic achievement by the year group."

Ben Hewson said he was 'really happy' after he was awarded 11A*s.

"I'm glad the hard work paid off," said Ben, who plans to study Physics, French, History and Maths at Ulverston's sixth form.

Another star pupil was Fraser Minnican who also achieved 11A*s. He plans to train as a RAF pilot once he has completed his A Levels.

Eloise Abbott was also jumping for joy after she found out she had gained 11A*s.

"I'm going to a friend’s house to celebrate," said Eloise. "I was really surprised with my results. I wasn't expecting it at all."

The other joint highest performing girl was Errin Brown who also achieved top marks in all 11 of her subjects.

"I was really shocked to get A*s in Physics and Geography as I was a bit unsure about those exams," said Errin.

"English Literature has always been my favourite subject so when I'm older I'd like to be some kind of writer."