One Clacton Coastal Academy pupil’s GCSE success was tinged with sadness following the sudden death of her father.

East Anglian Daily Times: Siobhan Bultitude received her GSCE results at Clacton Coastal Academy after continuing her studies after her father's death.Siobhan Bultitude received her GSCE results at Clacton Coastal Academy after continuing her studies after her father's death.

Siobhan Bultitude skipped one of her history exams when her dad Peter Maslin died unexpectedly on May 15, aged just 49, of suspected heart failure.

The tragedy came right at the start of the exam period, after Siobhan had only sat her English test.

But despite missing the exam Siobhan, 16, battled through the remainder of the test period and came out with better than expected results.

She achieved Cs in maths and English, Ds in performing arts and ICT, a BTEC distinction in IT and distinction* in science and health & social care.

She also managed to attain a C in history despite the missed exam after the school helped to make alternative arrangements with the exam board.

Siobhan, of Maldon Way, Clacton, said: “It was hard being in school when my dad had just passed away, and I did miss one exam as I had a few days off. There was a lot going on around that time.

“Me and my dad were really close, and he obviously wanted me to do well in school.

“I was stunned when I picked up my results because I was not expecting it.

“I was very nervous when I got the envelope, my bottom lip was going and I thought I was going to cry, but all the students and teachers surrounded me in support and when I saw what I got I was smiling and happy.

“The sun was shining and I know dad is looking down and is very proud of me.

“Without the teachers’ help I would not have got the results I did. They were really good.”

Siobhan is now going onto sixth form at her school, taking business studies, sociology and law, and hopes to go onto university once she leaves.

Academy principal Tracey Hemming added: “Siobhan’s success at GCSE is well deserved, the fortitude she has shown in dealing with the death of her father has been inspirational and humbling. She truly is one remarkable girl.”