Colchester boy, 14, gets an A star in rare Astronomy GCSE.

TEENAGER Akshay Parmar is a true star pupil, having passed his GCSE in astronomy a year early and narrowly missing out on the top grade.

The 14-year-old attends Colchester Royal Grammar School and will be starting Year 11 next year.

Dad Nick Parmar stated that Akshay was one of a small group of “about seven to eight” students who were able to take their astronomy exam early.

A limited number of schools offer GCSE astronomy, which includes complex concepts such as mathematical principles.

Akshay earned a Grade 8 in the subject. Nick stated, “There is a limited bank of past papers, which prevents them from gaining a broad range of experience.

“In addition, there is one hour of extra time after school each week. “It is predominately self-taught.” Mr Parmar stated that Akshay hoped for a Grade 9, but was aware that the first paper would be difficult.

However, the student is pleased with his Grade 8, which is equivalent to a lower A* mark.

He is also aiming high for next year, when he will take 11 more GCSEs. Akshay participates in school cricket and swimming, and he has recently taken up rock climbing as a hobby.

He is still undecided about his career but is considering becoming a corporate lawyer. Mr Parmer said, “I’d like to thank the headmaster.

“His leadership is without doubt the reason why that school continually achieves and gets better every year.”

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