A-level students continue to be above national average

Students across the borough are celebrating after continuing to surpass national averages for their A-level results.

The results show continued high performance at schools in the area and early data shows that 31.8 per cent of students have achieved the top grades of A* and A, a figure that has continued to rise over the last three years.

Overall, 79.8 per cent of students have achieved grade A* to C compared to a national average of 78.1 per cent.

Also receiving results today (13 August) are T level students, an alternative to A-levels but broadly equivalent in size to three A-levels, apprenticeships and other post-GCSE courses focusing on vocational skills where around 80 per cent of time is spent in the classroom and the rest spent in a workplace. 

BTEC students have also been collecting their results in the days and weeks leading up to A-level results day. 

There are many success stories pouring out of local schools, with young people securing placements at top universities, as well as degree apprenticeships and career opportunities.

Students achieve strong results across the board

Approximately 1,098 students sat A-levels in the borough, taking a total of 3,130 A-levels. 

A total of 994 top marks of A* and A were awarded, 31.8 per cent overall compared to a national average of 28.3 per cent.

Overall, the majority of grades were a pass, with 96.4 per cent achieving a grade A* to E, of which 58.9 per cent of which were grade A* to B compared to 55.6 per cent nationally.

Looking ahead to the next chapter

Cllr Prue Bray, executive member for children’s services, said: "Today is a day of celebration for young people across our borough and I’d like to congratulate everyone receiving their results.

"We are particularly pleased to see our students performing above the national average, reflecting the hard work, commitment and resilience they have shown throughout their studies. Whether these results lead to university, an apprenticeship, employment or another opportunity, they represent an important achievement and a strong foundation for the future.

"This success is very much a shared one. I’d like to thank parents, carers, families and friends for the encouragement and support they have provided along the way, as well as our dedicated teachers and school staff. Our schools continue to provide an excellent standard of education and care, helping young people to develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

"While many students will be celebrating today, we also recognise that results day can be challenging for some. If you haven't achieved the grades you were hoping for, remember that there are many routes to success and plenty of support is available to help you take your next steps. Don't be afraid to seek advice and explore the opportunities open to you.

"This success reflects the collective efforts of our schools, families, partners and wider community in supporting young people to thrive and achieve their potential.

“Whatever your results, you should take pride in the effort you have put in to reach this point. I wish every young person collecting their results today the very best for the future and look forward to seeing what they achieve next."

Support and advice available

Results day can bring mixed emotions. There is support for young people and guidance on post 16 options on the council’s website.

Elevate Wokingham is an information, advice and guidance service for 16 to 18-year-olds in Wokingham Borough who are not in education, employment or training, as well as young people aged up to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan.

Young people considering their next steps after receiving exam results can access free advice and guidance.

Advice sessions will be available at Wokingham Library today from 10am to 4pm and tomorrow from 10am to 1.30pm, with no appointment needed. 

Young people can also access online resources, speak to a careers adviser by email or by calling 07554 437421.

Ongoing support and referrals are available throughout the year via the Elevate Wokingham team and website using the self-referral form. You can also set up a Teams meeting or in-person appointment.