Students receive exam results across Cumbria after long wait

This is the first time these students have experienced national exams after GCSE exams for this cohort were replaced with teacher assessed grades after disruption caused by COVID-19.

Students’ exam results can determine their next steps with many going on to study at university, do apprenticeships or enter directly into the workforce.

Christina Smith, who is off to Glasgow University to study Chemistry said, “I’m feeling relieved, the pressure is off now and I’m excited to start university this September.” (Image: Newsquest)This year it was anticipated that A-level grades would be lower than expected for students, with results lowering to pre-pandemic levels.

The highest grades saw huge increases during the pandemic when public examinations were cancelled with teachers awarding students’ grades.

But despite the challenges, students across Cumbria have received offers to go to some of the best universities in the country, including Oxford and Cambridge.

At Keswick School, 27 students achieved two or more A*/A grades with 15 students achieving straight A*/A grades whilst there were more top grades awarded across Cumbria.

The headteacher of St John Henry Newman Catholic School, Mr John McAuley, said that the results demonstrated the ‘resilience’ of the students.

“Cumbrian schools are proud to serve our children, their families and the communities they come from.

Anna Brown with Mrs Hoskins, Head of Sixth Form at St John Henry Newman Catholic School (Image: St John Henry Newman Catholic School)“Results this year demonstrate yet again the resilience of Cumbrian youngsters and their dedication to their studies.

“The achievements of the students are all the more special for the challenges many families have faced due to the cost-of-living crisis, and we congratulate them all on the manner in which they have conducted themselves in what continues to be extraordinary times.”

“Their results reflect their hard work, their dedication and the support they received from their teachers and families.”

“Our students, the children of our wonderful county and schools are also more than the sum of their grades and so today we want to celebrate the individuals who have shone for all sorts of reasons.”

As well as going to university, many students are now entering the world of work here in Cumbria including posts at Sellafield and the Cumberland Infirmary.

Wiktoria Maslak, Ella Kershaw, Chloe Bell at Richard Rose Central Academy, Carlisle (Image: Supplied)Councillor Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development, said: “Congratulations to all of Cumberland’s students receiving their A Level results today.

“Today is a day for celebration and I’d like to recognise the hard work of our young people.  If you didn’t get the results you were hoping for – don’t panic – you still have plenty of options and support available.

READ MORE: A-level Results Live across Cumbria

“Whatever your results, it is now time for you to focus on the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“I’d like to thank all the head teachers, teachers, parents and carers in supporting our young people in getting to this point, and I’m sure they will join me in celebrating their achievements.”

The National Careers Service Exam Results Helpline is available from today until Friday, September 1 for young people who need help or advice around exam results or next steps.