A-level results are best ever
This year’s A-level students have achieved the best exam results on record, as thousands pick up top grades today.
Record numbers of students have gained university places , and overall 97.2% of candidates achieved A to E passes. Almost a quarter of student received A grades, a slight increase on last year.
English and maths were the most popular subject choices, and there were also more pupils taking exams in biology, chemistry and physics. Though fewer students took German, there was an increase in French and Spanish.
Fears that such high marks make it more difficult for universities to choose the best candidates surround the publication of the results, but schools minister Jim Knight told Sky News: "Students have worked really hard and have been well-supported by teachers and parents, so today should be about celebrating their good news.
"Parents and teachers are telling us that A-level students today are working harder than ever before. Why can't we just celebrate that?"
The results mean that fewer pupils will be going to university through Clearing this year.
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