Many students felt happy and relieved, but others were disappointed and anxious after opening A level result letters at Streatham and Clapham High School this morning.

Francesca Rechere, 18, smiled happily just after finding out she got Bs in Spanish and English and an A in Classics.

Ms Rechere said: "I’m proud. I’m quite shocked because I didn’t think I had done as well so that’s quite exciting. It’s just such a relief."

She has a place to study Politics at Newcastle University in 2013, but may reapply to change to politics and Spanish.

Uncertainty is facing Tashi Basak, 17, who was one mark off an A in Drama so missed out on the grades she need for a place at Sussex University in 2013.

Ms Basak said: "I feel alright. It’s annoying but I wasn’t going to go university this year anyway.

"I’m going to wait and get my paper remarked and see what happens."

Meanwhile Sophie Parsons, 18, is looking forward to studying politics at Manchester University after getting As in History and Geography and B in Biology.

She said: "I’m very happy. I wasn’t expecting anything but I’m just relieved."

Teachers and parents seemed as nervous and excited as the student collecting their results.

Sally Sellers, head of history, said: "We are as scared as the students in the morning. It’s terrifying.

"We want them to do well in our subject but we really want them to get into the university they want. We’re thrilled."

Across the board more than 80 per cent of the results were graded A*-B at the school.

Headmaster Dr Millan Sachania said: "I am delighted by our splendid A level results this year, which are a testament to the hard work of our students and teaching staff.

"I am particularly delighted with our record number of A* grades at A level and our 100 per cent pass mark."