FOR GCSE results, the tables are compiled slightly differently.

The number of pupils in the school year (Key Stage 4) is shown, then the percentage who achieved at least two A*-C grades in the vital subjects of science, English and maths. Also shown is the percentage of pupils with more than five A*-C grades.

The top scoring school in 2009 was Guru Nanak School, in Springfield Road, Hayes, where 75 per cent of its pupils gained five or more GCSEs at grades A*-C, as did Vyners School, in Warren Road, Ickenham.

Abbotsfield School, in Clifton Gardens, Hillingdon, is also highly praised, after being recognised as the seventh best improver in England.

Between 2006 and 2009, the proportion of pupils achieving five A*-C grades rose from 21 per cent to 53 per cent.

Mark Bland, headteacher at Abbotsfield, said: "It shows that single-sex schools are alive and kicking. There is nothing wrong with good, old-fashioned hard work and education.

"The secrets of our success are subjects which are relevant to the boys and the world of work, and can get them to university.

"We are exceptionally pleased to be the seventh highest improver in England. We have noticed the increase in results, and good-quality teaching and learning have also been a factor."

Two schools in Hayes also showed a marked improvement.

The number of pupils at Harlington Community School, in Pinkwell Lane, who achieved five or more A*-C passes including English and maths rose by 13 per cent, ranking it as the ninth most improved school in London.

But the most improved school in London is Barnhill Community High School, in Yeading Lane, with a rise to 48 per cent of pupils with five A*-C grades, an improvement of 23 per cent on the previous year.

Headteacher Robert Lobatto said: "Everybody involved with Barnhill can feel very proud.

"Our improving results show that we are well on the way to becoming an outstanding school."

Liz Horrigan, acting head-teacher at Harlington, said: "Staff and students were delighted to receive this acknowledgement.

"It is a testament to the strong teamwork and the continued raising of academic aspirations on the part of staff and students.

"Our students can be rightly proud of their achievements, and everyone at the school is committed to a continual pursuit of excellence."