Headteachers had plenty to smile about today after seeing improved GCSE results from their students this year.

The Oxford Mail spoke to three heads to find out their thoughts on how their schools fared.

At Peers School, in Littlemore, Oxford, the target had been to see 25 per cent of pupils gain five or more A* to C grades - so head Lorna Caldicott was delighted that 27 per cent of students reached the benchmark.

She said: "Our goal is to improve standards at the school by improving the achievement of every child.

"The key to this has been using information about each child and what it is he or she is capable of achieving.

"Every child has a target for every subject set at that level and knows how close they are to achieving it.

"It is by setting the most challenging targets, making sure all children and staff know what level they are working to achieve or exceed and then monitoring each child throughout the year which has been the key to improving our school."

She added: "Our approach is working and we have beaten our target for this year, which means Peers will be in the top 25 per cent of schools in the country for adding value to our pupils.

"The next few years look even better. Our SATs results smashed through our targets and our new Year 11 students are already exceeding their expectations."

At Matthew Arnold School, in Cumnor Hill, headteacher Katherine Ryan said results were in line with what she expected, even though this meant a slight drop from last year. A total of 64.9 per cent of students gained five or more A* to C passes.

She said: "Most students worked hard and very much deserve their exam successes. We are delighted with some exceptionally good performances and 10 students gained nine GCSE passes at A* or A.

"We had other success stories too, such as Farhad Malekcorr, who came to us in Year 10 speaking no English, worked extremely hard and gained four As, one B and three Cs.

"I also thank the staff at school since their commitment and effort have made possible the opportunity for so many students to achieve highly again this year.

"All departments run additional after school or lunchtime classes for revision, catch-up or support and guidance and many host Easter and half-term holiday classes too."

At Oxford High School, headmistress Felicity Lusk said she was "justifiably proud" of the results. All students gained five or more A* to C grades.

She said: "Our students are hardworking and supported by dedicated and knowledgeable staff, so it's pleasing to see the results reflecting all this effort.

"Over the past five years the average percentage of A* and A grades has been more than 88 per cent and this year was more than 92 per cent.

"These results are impressive when looked at under any analysis. However, it is the route to these examinations which we value.

"We want to develop a love for learning and nurture inquisitive and searching minds. Above all, our school ethos is to encourage respect for one another and the wider world."