FOR students studying the International Baccalaureate at an Alcester high school the anxious wait was finally over.

Students and staff at St Benedict's Catholic High School celebrated on Monday after the school maintained its average score of 33 points per student who passed the diploma- higher than the IB global average and exceeding three A* at A-level.

This year, the highest number of students passed the diploma since the sixth form opened in 2011.

With a maximum of 45 points available, Jessica Newgas achieved 41 points, putting her in the top 3 per cent globally, along with Elizabeth Dillam and Allie Rennie, who both scored 40 points ranking them amongst the top 5 percent worldwide.

Headteacher Nick Gibson said: “We are overjoyed with another excellent set of IB results; our students really are among the best in the world and they are supported by an exceptionally talented and dedicated team of staff.

“The IB represents the ‘gold standard’ in preparing our young people for both higher education and the world of work in the international arena.

“It provides critical thinking skills and a breadth of experience and knowledge which offers our students a real competitive edge.”

Head of Sixth Form Simon Smallman said: “It is hugely satisfying to see such hard work from students and staff being rewarded so deservedly.”