A FOOTBALL academy awaits a schoolboy who swam the Channel.

Northwich resident and Beech Hall School pupil James Barlow is celebrating after collecting his hard-earned GCSE results.

James secured seven GCSEs, including a grade 7 and 6 in combined science, earning himself a coveted place at the Education and Semi-Professional Football Academy.

He has demonstrated his passion for sports throughout his time at Beech Hall, most notably in 2022 when he completed a 21-mile relay swim of the English Channel to raise money for Mencap, the a national learning disability charity.

Headmaster James Allen said: “James has showcased a highly positive attitude to learning during his time at Beech Hall School and has made excellent progress.

“We are incredibly pleased that his efforts have been rewarded with a fantastic set of results that he worked so hard to achieve, and look forward to hearing more about his future endeavours.”

Mr Allen added: “At Beech Hall School we are committed to the development of the whole child and hope that by fostering a caring community within a secure, stimulating environment each child will fulfil their potential academically, socially, physically and emotionally.

“It has been a pleasure to see this year’s cohort flourish, and we wish them the very best of luck as they embark on the next stage of their academic journey as confident, determined and happy young individuals, whether that is in our brand new sixth form or elsewhere.”