TWO Darlington pupils have particular reason to be proud after overcoming serious health challenges to do well in their GCSEs.
Clara Grzywaczewska and Clara Cunningham both had to take a long time off from their studies at Carmel College, in Darlington, but were celebrating strong results today.
Clara Grzywaczewska demonstrated “exceptional resilience and determination” following her long treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.
“Despite missing almost an entire academic year during her time in hospital, she returned to school with remarkable focus, and worked tirelessly to catch up,” said a spokesperson for Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust, which oversees the college.
Clara was especially proud of achieving a Grade 9 in English literature, saying: “I thought I might get a Grade 4 so I’m feeling overwhelmed – but overwhelmed in a happy way. I’m so proud of myself because I missed most of Year 9 and a lot of Year 10.”
Clara, who is of Polish descent, now plans to study art.
Her mum Margaret said: “It’s amazing because she’s done so well and had so much support from the school. Given how much time off she had to have, it’s just incredible. She’s worked so hard to get back to a normal life.”
Clara Cunningham also achieved her GCSE targets despite having to take a lot of time off while she had spinal surgery last year.
Clara Cunningham who did well in her GCSEs despite a long period off school following spinal fusion surgery
(Image: Peter Barron)
Clara has scoliosis and needed six weeks after undergoing a spinal fusion operation in 2025.
Despite everything she’s been through, she worked hard to catch up. “I’m especially pleased with my Grade 8 in English Language,” she said.
She plans to include film studies in her A Levels.
Newcastle United under-21 player George Mair is delighted after he achieved his goals at Carmel College.
Goalkeeper George, 16, has been signed by the Magpies on a five-year deal. He is a regular in goal for the club’s under-21 team, and he has also played for England at different age levels.
George Mair achieved his GCSE goals
(Image: Peter Barron)
He was thrilled after achieving the grades he hoped for, saying: “I got what I needed, and Carmel College has supported me 100 per cent with combining my studies and being away a lot because of football.”
His mum Rachel Copeland said: “I’m so proud of him – he blows me away. He’s told me he wants to be a goalkeeper since he was five, and has always had a ball close by. He’s so determined and the school has been amazing in supporting him every step of the way.”
Twins Anya and Jacob Nattrass were congratulated by their local MP after achieving results to be proud of at Carmel College.
Twins Anya and Jacob Nattrass with Darlington MP Lola McEvoy
(Image: Peter Barron)
Anya’s results included a Grade 9 in English and Jacob got a Grade 9 in Geography.
Mum Sarah and dad Dave said: “We are incredibly proud. This is a fantastic school and big thanks to the staff for their hard work.”
Zacari Chundula was all smiles after opening her GCSE results and was particularly proud of her Grace 8s in RE and Spanish.
Zacari Chundula with mum Juliet
(Image: Peter Barron)
Her mum, Juliet, who came to the UK from Zambia in 2004, was just as happy, saying: “I’m so proud of her!”
Mya Stores is planning to study maths, biology, chemistry and English Literature at A Level after achieving high grades in her GCSEs.
Mya was especially proud of her Grade 9 in maths, saying: “I didn’t think I’d manage it but it’s a validation of all my hard work to see it pay off.”
Mya Stores was happy with her GCSE results
(Image: Peter Barron)
Carmel College was significantly above the national average for Grades 4 and 5 in Maths and English.
A total of 38 per cent of combined English students achieved grades between 9 and 7, and 85% of pupils achieved Grade 4 and above in English and Maths.
Creative arts subject scores were also well above the national average.
There was also great pride in the fact that disadvantaged pupils at the school achieved an ‘Attainment 8’ average score of 45 points – just a single point below the overall national average for all students. Attainment 8 measures the average academic results of pupils across eight specific GCSE-level subjects.
“The dedication of the staff to go above and beyond has produced really strong outcomes and set up our students well for a bright future,” said Principal Melanie Kane.
“It is particularly significant that we were able to help our disadvantaged pupils get so close to the overall national average for all pupils. That’s something we are very proud of.
“We are also delighted that so many of our pupils are staying with us for their A Levels and continuing their journey with the Carmel family.”