Students head to schools for A Level results

A Levels, along with other post-16 training and education routes such as apprenticeships and BTECs, signal the end of compulsory education and the start of the next phase in life, whether that be further education or getting a job.

Higher grades across the board

It was a fantastic result for students, with provisional results being higher than national average across the board. Almost 30 per cent were in the highest achievers awarded grade A* to A, compared to a national average of 26.5 per cent.

57.7 per cent received a grade of A* to B, five per cent higher than the national average of 52.7 per cent, with 80.1 per cent achieving A* to C, just under five per cent higher than the national average of 75.4 per cent.

Overall 97.9 per cent achieved grades A* to E, slightly above the national average of 97.2 per cent.

Thank you for your dedication and determination

Cllr Prue Bray, executive member for children’s services and deputy leader, said: “Once again students in the borough have surpassed the national average, which is a great testament to the hard work they have put in and reflects  the excellent schools we have in the borough.

“I want to congratulate all students who have received their results today, as well as those who’ve been receiving results over the past few weeks from other courses such as apprenticeships and BTECs. You should all be really proud of what you have achieved.

“Exams are the end of a long period of hard work for students, as well as their parents and teachers. On behalf of Wokingham Borough Council, I’d like to thank all of you for your dedication and determination.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to wish all students luck on their next steps and want to reassure any that haven’t got the results they’d like not to be disheartened - this is only the beginning and there are many routes available to achieve your goals.”

Help with the next steps

Elevate Wokingham is the council’s advice and support service for 16 to 18 year olds (or 24 for adults with special educational needs and disabilities) on employment, career planning, training, education, work experience and volunteering.

The team are ready to help people decide their next steps after their exam results and can be contacted on 07710 117 650 or at elevate@wokingham.gov.uk.

Looking after yourself

It’s normal to feel anxious or worried about an unexpectedly low result, but it’s useful to know that it isn’t the end - this happens to a lot of people and for many different reasons.

It can be difficult to stay calm but there are still lots of options available, as well as people and organisations which can provide support. 

The council’s emotional wellbeing hub for young people has provided these five top tips:

• Breathe – don’t panic, take time to refocus
• Speak to someone – find someone who can help you focus and listen to how you are feeling
• Explore your options – your school should have someone who can help but Elevate also can
• Take your time – you don’t have to rush or make a snap decision. Wait until you’re less stressed
• Get support – if you need someone to talk to you can find a range of different options on the council’s emotional and mental health support for children and young people webpage.