Peckham students celebrate ‘exceptional’ GCSE results despite pandemic challenges

Students across South London are still celebrating their huge achievements after GCSE results were released last week.

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Year 11’s at Harris Academy, Peckham, did exceptionally well.

One student, Rianna Small-Lawrence achieved 9 and 8 in combined science, 9 in RS, 8’s in English language and literature, 7 in maths, 7 in food technology and a 6 in French.

She will now go on to study for her A Levels and aspires to study social sciences at university to enable her to pursue a career in Mental Health or Social Sciences.

Claudette Bergin, Principal of Harris Academy Peckham, said: “Rianna really is a phenomenal student who has shown true resilience and determination.

“We admire her strength to see the rainbows past the storm.

“She has worked so hard and deserves these amazing results. Her commitment to doing well in her exams has been powerful beyond belief.”

Another student, Kymani Skyers juggled schoolwork while playing for a Premier League youth team at Crystal Palace but still managed to achieve the top grades in his subjects.

He achieved five grade 9s, two grade 8s and one grade 7, and he is determined to pursue a career in football – either as a footballer or a physiotherapist.

He said: “I see this as the best of both worlds. Two possible careers in fields that I love, and these complement each other very well.”

Ms Bergin, said: “We are so proud of all our Year 11 today.

“They have achieved some amazing results in a very challenging year.

“We wish them every success as they progress into the next stages of their education. Well done all.”

Pictured: Alfie Long, Prince Shodipe, Sabrina Hassan (L-R)