Becky Williams, aged 16, from Kingstanding, said she was almost sick with nerves before coming to get her results in the morning.
But she was thrilled to learn she had gained ten GCSE passes with As in English literature and English language.
Kimberley Beet, aged 16, obtained nine passes, including B grades in maths and English literature.
"My English result was not expected," she said. "I am just amazed, I really am. I was dreading getting it ."
Wesley Hayward, from Kingstanding, achieved five GCSEs including maths, all at grade C. He now has the necessary results to take up his place at Josiah Mason College on a computer programming course.
"I did not expect to get a C in French," he said. "I didn't enjoy it much, so I'm pleased about that."
Chris Haywood gained six GCSEs including B grades in art and English. Yesterday was a significant day for him.
"I'm guaranteed a college place to study for an art and design BTech national diploma - I needed four Cs. It's my birthday today and my nan wrote in my card: 'I hope you have some top results' - and I have."
