Despite Covid disruption, eight Surbiton High girls have landed places at Oxford and Cambridge this autumn.

They will join two students, Aiyla and Rana, who had deferred offers (both for biology at Oxford), so 10 Surbiton High girls will begin Oxbridge courses in October.

In the past five years, 39 Surbiton High girls have gained Oxbridge places, thanks in part to a dedicated coaching team in the school in Surbiton Crescent.

Terry McDermott, who heads the team, said he was “absolutely over the moon”, while SHS principal Rebecca Glover, now in her post for four years, added that she was “incredibly proud” of the students.