Alex shows his ability

Congratulations to Kirton Academy student Alex Mann, who overcame a visual impairment to gain a host of "exceptional" 5, 6 and 7 GCSE grades.

He is now looking forward to studying music production in September after playing a successful part in the school band.

Alex said: "I was hoping to get results like these. I tried really hard and did my best, but I still didn't know. I think it's paid off now though.

"I've had a really good experience here; everyone is friendly, and the teachers are lovely."

Alex has congenital stationary night blindness and tunnel vision, which means he struggles to see certain things.

"In a classroom, I might not be able to read a worksheet so would have to have it enlarged, or I may not be able to see a whiteboard so would have to have some help," he explained.

"The school has been really helpful with that, whether it's having a TA or a camera that can zoom into the whiteboard to help me see it.

"When I sat my exams, I was in my own room and had everything provided for me, so I had all the support I needed."

Alex was inspired to pursue a career in music after joining the school band, which was set up two years ago as an extra-curricular activity.

He said: "I play the piano and sometimes do some singing, but whether it's any good I'm not sure! I've really enjoyed it.

"School has really helped me towards my goal of a career in music. We have a great music teacher, Mr Cook, who set up the school band.

"We've practised in lunch and break times and there are music lessons that you can do outside of school time as well."

Alex collected his results with a group of family members including father Chris, who said he was "very proud" of his son's achievements.

"He's had a difficult, challenging time with his visual impairment, so to get those results today is fantastic. He's really put the work and effort in and he's such a nice, sociable lad. I'm very proud."

Mother Amanda added: "Nobody really knows he's disabled; he just gets on with it and isn't fazed by it. The school has just been so supportive, everyone has been amazing.

"I'm so proud of everything Alex has achieved."

Kirton Academy Principal Emma Ricketts also said she was "very proud" of Alex's achievements.

"He's been a wonderful student and has achieved exceptional exam results. He's thrown himself into every opportunity possible at school; nothing is ever too much and he never lets his disability get in the way.