A LEVEL JOY FOR CITY PUPILS

There were cheers as teenagers celebrated excellent exam scores as they anxiously picked up their A Level results.

For the fourth year running, Peterborough’s pass rate beat the national average, with many youngsters now planning for life at university.

The pass rate in Peterborough was 98.2 per cent, compared to a national average of 97.6 per cent.

However, the Peterborough rate is a drop compared to 2017, when the pass rate was 98.7 per cent.

Some schools, including Hampton College, posted their highest ever scores, with hard work from students, parents and teachers paying off.

The proportion of students achieving higher grades has remained high, with 44.7 per cent of students in Peterborough scoring grades A*-B, compared to 44.8 per cent last year.

Of 942 students sitting A Levels, 734 of them (77.9 per cent) achieved passes in at least three subjects.

Jonathan Lewis, Peterborough City Council’s Director of Education, said the drop in Peterborough scores was down to a change in the way A Levels were run, with many courses dropping course work and relying only on exams.

He said: “I would like to say a big well done to all the young people who collected their exam results today. The city’s schools are once again above the national average for the number of pupils achieving A-level passes which is fantastic.

“A-levels open up many doors for young people, whether they are remaining in education or training, or entering the world of work. I’d like to wish all students the very best for the future as they look ahead and make more decisions about work and further studies.”

Councillor Lynne Ayres, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “Young people will have worked extremely hard towards their A-levels or equivalent, and they should be very proud of their achievements.

“Regardless of the grades they achieve, it’s important young people remember there is plenty of support and advice available, whether they decide to go straight into employment or continue learning at college or university.

“Making decisions on what training, education and ultimately which career to pursue can be daunting for young people. Experts are on hand to provide support and impartial advice to help young people make the best decision for their future.”

Young people who are unsure of their next steps following their A-Level results can get help and advice from the Youth Access Hub at City College Peterborough in Brook Street.

In the hub students can speak to careers advisers from the council, City College Peterborough and a range of other providers about their options. The hub is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday throughout August from 1pm to 4.30pm. Young people can drop in or call (01733) 864500 to book an appointment or (01733) 293897 during the hub’s opening hours.

If you’re ready to study for an apprenticeship, then a good place to start is the website for young people managed by The Skills Service, visit their website at www.theskillsservice.co.uk/ stand-out/