Eton College has been named the top independent school in the country in a new league table for A-level results.
The historic boarding school, favoured by Royals and founded by Henry VI in 1440, saw its boys notch up an average of more than four As each in their exams this year.
For the first time, half of all A-level entries in independent schools were awarded As, according to the Independent Schools Council, which released the figures.
Eton headmaster Tony Little welcomed the results but warned that the school could drop A-levels for rival qualifications if the traditional exams are not reformed.
"It is always pleasing to see the hard work of boys and teachers rewarded, especially boys who are not naturally gifted academically," he said.
One boy at the school achieved 10 As in his A-levels but did so purely because he loved learning, Mr Little said.
But while A-levels work well for most pupils, they can limit the opportunities for the brightest to demonstrate their abilities. With so many pupils achieving As, universities struggle to identify the best candidates.
In common with other independent schools, Eton is interested in rival qualifications such as the new Pre-U being developed in Cambridge.
The Pre-U, which will be available for teaching from next year, will involve studying three subjects over two years, with final exams and an extended essay. Currently, A-levels are modular with exams taken in units during the course.
