A course that challenges students across a vast range of subjects is continually bringing the best out of pupils.

Varndean College students have once again excelled this summer in the demanding International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

The course, which requires students to take a wide range of academic subjects at a challenging level, is recognised worldwide as an excellent preparation for university.

The school’s students achieved some of the best results of any state school in the country, with nearly half of the subject grades awarded at the highest levels - IB 6 and 7.

International Baccalaureate co-ordinator Dr Sean McEvoy was full of praise for the students.

He said: “They have been a brilliant bunch of young people to work with.

“They have worked hard, but really enjoyed it and gained a great deal.

“They are now off to an impressive range of universities.

“Last year we had the best results of any college in the UK, with five students going on to take up places at Oxford or Cambridge – this year they are nearly as good.”

The top-scoring student was Amy Gwyther from Downlands Community School in Hassocks, who achieved 41 points and will study medicine at Southampton University.

Cloe Ofori from Priory School in Lewes was awarded 40 points and will read arts and sciences at University College London.

Varndean College Students averaged 34 points each.

IB student Joe Boyle from Shoreham College registered 39 points and is going to Edinburgh University to study environmental and ecological science.

Joe chose the IB because he liked the way it is taught.

He said: “You are actually learning your subject in depth, not just learning to pass the tests.”

The course continues to be very popular with students, with more than 50 students accepting places to start the IB in September.