The number 42 is known to some literary fans as the meaning of life, the universe and everything.

But it also meant the world and a bright future for the class of 2024 at Weydon School, as that’s the percentage of students who received five or more A* to A grades in this year’s GCSEs.

The Farnham school showed its all-round class with 13 per cent of students achieving at least one Grade 9 and 27.8 per cent getting either an 8 or 9.

Ben Rigler and Claudia Warren picked up their results and were delighted when they finally saw the product of their hard work.

Ben said: “It’s been really fun here and I have made lots of friends and school has prepared us well but college will mean new friends, new opportunities and more fun.”

Claudia added: “It's going to be a shame to go to other colleges without certain friends. But I’m looking forward to fewer subjects, to be honest, and meeting new people.”

Principal Jackie Sharman said: “We are so incredibly proud of you and wish you all the best for the next stages of your academic journey. We will miss you all.”

For many at the school, it was a bittersweet feeling as for many this will be the last time they see the staff, friends and mentors that have helped them achieve the results.

On opening his result with his dad Luca said: “It was a bit scary because he was there, but he is proud of me I think.

“All of my results were good but I did not think I would get as much as 7 in English Literature, which I’m really happy about.”

Alongside their results, the school had prepared a yearbook and leavers hoodies in a wide range of colours for the students.