School desks

Provisional A Level results: 97% achieved two A* to E passes

A-level results in from IW council in their own words. Data from individual schools will be released on Monday. Ed


During the 2012/13 academic year, 744 post-16 students have been working towards A-level and equivalent qualifications in school sixth forms and training providers on the Isle of Wight.

97% achieved two A* to E passes
Provisional results indicate that students have been very successful with 97% achieving the target of two A* to E passes at A-Level, or their vocational equivalent, a four percentage point improvement on the 93% result in 2012.

Limited national figures are so far available for 2013 but the Isle of Wight results compare favourably with the national picture in 2012 where 93% achieved against the same measure. Results also show that 17% of A-level passes on the Island were at A* or A.

The Isle of Wight Council retains a responsibility for the outcomes achieved by young people to the age of 18 (age 25 in the case of young people with learning disabilities), and supports the Island’s post-16 providers in continuing to offer a wide range of education and training opportunities.

As well as A-level and vocational diplomas, students studied for a range of other qualifications including AS level and foundation level qualifications.

Priest: “Results are a reflection of the hard work of students”
Commenting, councillor Richard Priest, cabinet member for children’s services for the Isle of Wight Council said:

“I would like to congratulate all post-16 students on their achievement. Provisional results suggest that we can celebrate a good year for post-16 outcomes on the Island.

“Whilst A Levels remain a ‘gold standard’ for 18 year olds in terms of academic achievement, the importance of vocational examinations should not be overlooked and the vocational achievements of students should be celebrated in equal measure.

“This is especially relevant as more students are seeking entry to careers at the age of 18 rather than automatically heading to university.

“This is the first year of the raising of the participation age, and most young people will be remaining in education and training, after completing their secondary education, to ensure they gain the necessary skills and qualifications to play a full part in the workforce and economy.

“This has benefits not only for them but also for the local communities in which they live and work ensuring those communities can prosper and remain vibrant and make a contribution to the overall wealth and prosperity of the country.

“This summer’s results are a reflection of the hard work of students and the work of those providing education and training to the post-16 sector. I also wish to acknowledge the support students are given by the teaching and support staff, as well as the students’ parents and carers.”

Support for pupils
The Isle of Wight Council’s participation team offers independent and impartial support to all young people during the exam results period. The team can be found at 29 High Street, Newport, P030 1SS and can be contacted on (01983) 525927.

The team operate a ‘drop-in’ service where no appointment is necessary. The opening times are Monday to Thursday 9.30am to 12.30pm then 1pm to 4.30pm and Friday 9.30am to 12.30pm then 1pm to 4pm.

Anyone visiting the centre will meet a qualified participation adviser in a safe and confidential environment and help explore the full range of options that are open to post-16 students including further and higher education, as well as training and employment opportunities.

Young people who are not returning to full-time education or training can also meet a dedicated adviser who will be happy to work with them. They can then be contacted directly either by phone, email or by visiting the centre. The service can also make referrals to a wide range of training providers, employers and other agencies.

Image: Robert Couse Baker under CC BY 2.0