AS?thousands of students across the county have been celebrating exam success, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for education has acknowledged the hard work of young people studying for A-Levels and on vocational courses.

Provisional results, reported by Hampshire colleges and school sixth forms, show that A-Level students in the county continue to outperform the national average.

The percentage of A-Levels at grade A*/A has increased to 26 per cent, a rise of one per cent.

The overall A-E grade pass rate remains at 99 per cent.

Many students in Hampshire also received strong results for advanced level technical and general applied qualifications.

And Peter Edgar said: “This summer’s results are a reflection of students’ hard work and the benefit of the high-quality, post-16 education and training that we have in Hampshire.

“It’s important that young people have the opportunity to study the subjects that interest them, and to achieve results that will enable them to pursue their career plans through university, work-based training or full-time employment. It’s particularly pleasing to see a high percentage of Hampshire students achieving the highest grades.

“I wish to acknowledge and thank the many excellent teaching and support staff in our colleges and school sixth forms who, along with parents and carers, work so hard to support students to achieve.”

He added: “Students who have gained vocational qualifications and apprenticeships should be congratulated in equal measure. Having visited a large number of schools, colleges and businesses over the last few years, and spoken with many young people in training, I can see that they lead to good careers. They also enable young people to gain real on-the-job experience while studying which, for many jobs, is absolutely invaluable.

“Opportunities here in Hampshire are greater than ever before – whatever qualifications are achieved. After receiving their results, if any young person is unsure of their next step, I would urge them to contact our results day helpline on 01962 846193 for advice.”

The county council retains a responsibility for young people up to the age of 18 (or age 25 in the case of young people with learning disabilities) and supports Hampshire’s post-16 providers in continuing to offer a wide range of high-quality education and training opportunities. As well as A-Level and vocational diplomas, students across the county studied for a wide range of other qualifications, including AS-Level and apprenticeships.

n Hampshire Futures, the county council’s youth service, is providing a helpline to support any students who want to discuss their options after receiving either their A-Level or GCSE exam results. Visit hants.gov.uk/educationandlearning/hampshirefutures.