SENIOR figures praised the hard work of students at Priestley College’s awards evening and urged them to ignore claims that exams are getting easier.

College Principal Mike Southworth and the chairman of governors Reg Haslam said achievements such as a 100 per cent pass rate in 39 A Level subjects, were down to dedication and hard work.

“This is our best attendance ever and the best in terms of academic achievement, regardless of those who say exams are becoming easier each year,” he said. “Not true – the results are due to the hard work of your children and all the staff here at Priestley.”

Later in the evening, Mike Southworth echoed his comments saying: “These results are not because examinations are getting easier. You all worked hard and our great teachers were diligent in motivating you to excel. Put simply, with great support from your parents, you knew what was expected and you delivered.”

Priestley College handed out a record 72 awards to high achievers during the awards evening.