County A-level figures beat the national pass rate

Despite a first drop in the national pass rate for 32 years, provisional indications from Lincolnshire schools are that there were 98.6 per cent of A-levels passes, beating the national figure by 0.6 per cent.

The highest grade of A* was achieved in 7.8 per cent of entries, an increase of 0.7 per cent on last year. This compares to a national figure of 8.2 per cent (an increase of 0.6 per cent on last year) showing that Lincolnshire continues to close the gap.

Thirteen Lincolnshire schools achieved a percentage of A* Grades greater than the national figure of 8.2 per cent, with eight achieving more than 10 per cent of A* grades.

Twelve Lincolnshire schools achieved an outstanding 100 per cent of pass grades. These were: University Academy, Holbeach; Spalding High School; The Skegness Academy; Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, Horncastle; Queen Elizabeth’s High School, Gainsborough; Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, Alford; The Priory Witham Academy, Lincoln; The North Hykeham Joint Sixth Form; King Edward VI Academy, Spilsby; The Giles Academy, Old Leake, Caistor Grammar School and Boston High School.

Many students in Lincolnshire also follow courses equivalent to A-levels alongside traditional A-levels or as an alternative to them. Although no national comparisons are available at this time, initial reports show that the overall pass rate has increased 0.7pc when these results are added in, with one school achieving 57.5 per cent at grades A* or A or equivalent.

Executive councillor for children’s services Patricia Bradwell,, said: “I am immensely proud that almost all A-level students in Lincolnshire have successfully passed their exams. Students put a lot of work into their studies over an intense two year period and it has really paid off. I know that they would all want me to extend their thanks to their teachers, parents and carers for supporting them so well.”

Director of children’s services Debbie Barnes, said: “I know how hard it is for students to succeed in their sixth-form studies. It doesn’t happen by magic. Successful futures depend on the sort of dedication that our students have displayed. Lincolnshire has shown, yet again, that our young people can compete with the best the country has to offer. Well done to every single one of you and good luck with your future plans”.