It was the day of truth for students but the nervous opening of envelopes revealed students in South Norfolk had achieved an overall increase in GCSE results despite concerns over tougher exams.
GCSEs in England have been overhauled in recent years and a new numerical 9-to-1 grading system has been introduced, mostly marked on final exams rather than coursework.
Despite the changes Diss High School saw across the board improvements on last year's results with 84pc of students achieving a grade four plus in English, 79pc of students achieving a grade four plus in two sciences and 76pc achieving a grade four plus in maths.
Some 72pc of students achieved at least a grade four in both English and maths, an increase of six per cent on last year's results.
Notable students were Finn Zaal who achieved 11 strong GCSE passes including eight grade nines, twos grade eights and a Grade A in level 3 additional maths; and Phoebe Court who achieved 10 strong passes including two grade nines and four grade eights.
A delighted Finn, who will now study maths, further maths, physics and chemistry A-levels, said: "I'm very happy it is better than I expected. It has been a pretty nervous wait for the results over the summer but luckily I've had things to try to take my mind of it."
Phoebe, who will now study A-levels in maths, further maths, physics and classics, added: "The subjects I felt most nervous about I've done well in, so it is a big relief. It was a lot of hard work but it now feels good."
Other successes included Reuben Nebbett-Blades who achieved 10 strong passes including six grade nines and a grade eight; Oliver Bevan who achieved nine strong passes including seven grade nines and a grade eight; and Ethan Everson-Germany who achieved 11 strong passes including four grade nines and two grade eights.
Headteacher, Dr Jan Hunt, said: "This is a year group have achieved very highly and have made excellent progress from their starting points. Students and staff are to be congratulated on another successful set of results which have come from dedicated hard work and supportive parents."
Archbishop Sancroft High School in Harleston, which had seen three consecutive years of improvements, saw a slight overall fall this year, with 69pc of students achieving at least a grade four in English and maths, compared with 71pc in 2018.
Rob Connelly, head of school, said: "We are thrilled with the achievements of this year group with many students achieving the highest grade possible in subjects across the curriculum. I am incredibly grateful for the support received from the staff, parents, governors and St Benet's MAT, enabling all members of this very special community to flourish."
The number of Long Stratton High School students achieving at least a grade four in both English and maths was 74pc, an increase from 71pc last year and a lowly 66pc in 2017.
Headteacher Dr Roger Harris said: "This was a fantastic all round strong performance. It marks very good progress for the school and all the pupils have done really well. That is down to both their dedication and hard work but also to the support of our amazing staff and the parents."
Meanwhile Stradbroke High School saw a fall to 65pc of students achieving at least a grade four in English and maths compared to 70pc last tyear and 79pc in 2017.
Headteacher John Axtell said: "Once again, we are delighted that our students have been rewarded for their hard work, with another excellent set of GCSE results this year. I am overjoyed with the progress and attainment of all of our students.
"It is especially worth mentioning Spencer Kent, our head boy, who attained an amazing eight grade nines and two grade eights. Additionally, Katie Childs proved her talents in maths and sciences, with grade nines in these subjects, as well as securing a grade A in additional maths, and a pass in Level 3 algebra.
"Well done to all our students for their remarkable achievements."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here