Students across Cumbria have received their A-level results today.
Nationally results have shown an improvement and this picture has also been reflected in Cumberland, the local authority said,
Level 3 (A-level and equivalent examinations) have seen improved results year-on-year with an average Level 3 points score received per student this year at 34.22, compared to 31.71 last year – a rise of 2.51.
Level 3 results are subject to change as they enter a period of validation, with the final collective performance of Cumberland students available later this year.
Councillor Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council executive member for lifelong learning and development, said: “A huge congratulations to all our Cumberland students who received their A-level results today.
“Enjoy this moment to celebrate all your hard work and dedication to your studies. You can now focus on the future and the exciting opportunities ahead.
“We also want to thank the headteachers, teachers, parents, and carers who have supported our students throughout their journey.
“Their commitment has been crucial in achieving this milestone, and we join them in celebrating these accomplishments.”
Westmorland & Furness Council said early indications suggested average Level 3 results in its area have increased compared to 2023.
It added: “The rise is pleasing as grade boundaries have been reported as reverting back to pre-pandemic levels.”
A-level and equivalent Level 3 results are currently subject to change and the authority said it was unlikely to have a complete picture of the results until the end of September 2023 to compare against the national outcome.
Early indications however, suggest average points for three A-levels this year was 34.1, compared to 32.48 in 2023. This is an increase of 1.53 points.
Milorad Vasic, director of children’s services at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “I want to take this opportunity to congratulate all students on their hard work. I am immensely proud of everyone’s efforts. Whatever your results, it is now time for you to focus on the future and the opportunities which lie ahead.”
Keswick School
Keswick School said it was delighted to congratulate all its students.
It said the results have exceeded previous years, with 21 students achieving straight A*/A grades in three or more subjects and 37 students achieving two or more A*/A grades.
Students will now be looking forward to starting courses at Cambridge, UCL, and Durham universities among others.
Simon Jackson, headteacher, said: “I would like pay tribute to our outstanding students. They are conscientious, hardworking and great role models for our younger students. Over their time at Keswick School they have grown as individuals and acquired the skills and values that I hope will help them achieve their ambitions in the future.
“Almost every student has secured their first-choice course at university or an apprenticeship. This is the success that we are really focussed on celebrating today. Their achievements are also a reflection on the dedication of our team of specialist teachers and associate staff.
“It is now important that these fantastic young people look forward to bright and very optimistic future.”
Sophie French, head of sixth form, added: “I am very grateful to the students, to their families, and to our talented and committed staff, for everything they have done to make this year group’s time in sixth form a successful one.
“The sheer breadth of destinations onto which our students progress is testament to the diversity and inclusivity of the student body, as well as to the opportunities they are willing to embrace both locally and further afield.
“Here in the sixth form we value students who work hard, who contribute to the community, and who act with kindness, responsibility and maturity. This year group has undoubtedly embodied these qualities and we are delighted that their efforts have been rewarded. We wish them the best of luck as they embark on the next stage in their lives.”
Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Penrith
Headteacher David Marchant said: “We are extremely proud of our students, who have again, shown us how they can rise to challenges and excel in their performance.
“Our students faced uncertainty caused by the pandemic throughout their schooling and especially their GCSEs and their exceptional A-level results are a testament to their hard work and determination with the support of their families and their teachers.
“We know that the majority of students will be pleased with their results and will have the keys to go onto to their anticipated destinations in September. Their results reflect their hard work, their dedication and the support they received from their families and teachers.
“We are delighted that the vast majority of students who have applied to university have already been placed in their firm or insurance choices including Cambridge, Edinburgh, Durham, Loughborough and Glasgow.
“We also have students who are taking up places at prestigious conservatoires to continue studies in music and musical theatre.
“We have an increasing number of students who have successfully secured higher and degree level apprenticeships, including Ben Ellis and Nathan Rogerson who are taking up accounting apprenticeships with local firms, Ella Kirkton who will be starting with BAE Systems, Louis Martyn who has a place at Sellafield and Ed Walker who will be starting a role in conservation management.”
The school said a third of all grades at an A*/A. Personal achievements included Grace Monkhouse who achieved 3 A*s, Carys Ilett with 4 A*s, Rebecca Boving-Foster with 1 A*s and 3 As, Charis Pattimore with 2A* and 1 A, Henry Yang with 1* and 2 As and Ben Rodley with 2 A*s, 1 A and 1 B.
Natasha Marshall, senior assistant headteacher, added: “We are incredibly proud of our year 13 students and whilst today there will be a focus on grades, what they often do not reflect are the personal stories which have led up to them.
“Some students demonstrated tremendous fortitude to overcome challenging personal circumstances and have come out with a fantastic set of results for which they really should be applauded. We wish all our students the very best of luck in their next steps and look forward to seeing them in January for our annual awards evening.”
Austin Friars, Carlisle
Pupils from Austin Friars have been celebrating their A-level results.
Molly Skeer achieved AAB in geography, religious studies and psychology.
Molly said: “I’m really happy with the grades that I got and can’t wait to start my university journey in Liverpool.”
Aidan Riddick achieved A*AB in history, classical civilisation and English literature.
Aidan said: “I’m really pleased to be going to Newcastle University to study history and look forward to celebrating at Wetherspoons with my friends!”
Ruby Manning achieved BCC in biology, mathematics and psychology.
Ruby said: “I got into my first-choice university (SRUC Barony in Dumfries) to study a Bsc (Hons) in veterinary nursing.
“All of my teachers at Friars have been amazing – the maths department helped me to build up my confidence, and I wouldn’t have been able to get into university without them!”
Chris Hattam, the newly appointed head at Austin Friars, said: “Congratulations to our Upper Sixth students who have received their grades and achieved their goals.
“This comes as a result of a lot of hard work on their behalf, as well as the investment of diligence and care from their teachers over the last two years.
“I’m absolutely delighted and wish everyone the very best with their university careers and pathways ahead of them.”
Dallam School, Milnthorpe
Staff and students at Dallam School in Milnthorpe are celebrating the achievements of 71 students who sat their A-levels and BTECs this summer.
Among those with strong academic results are Jake Burgess-Tolley and Luke Harrison who both achieved A* in maths, A in further maths, A in physics, alongside a distinction star in their BTEC computing for their fourth subject. This has gained them both a place at Durham University to study maths and physics and natural sciences courses.
Luke said “My time at Dallam has been the best. I couldn’t have asked for better. What stands out for me here are the teachers and how they have supported me – they are so helpful and very good at what they do.”
Katie Nowicki achieved three A grades in biology, chemistry and physics and is heading to the University of Glasgow to study medicine.
Katie says “I’m shocked but so happy that all my hard work has paid off. I’ve had a great seven years at Dallam. My time here has really shaped me as a person and I’m grateful to my teachers for all their help and support as I wouldn’t have got these results without them.”
Other result highlights from the year group include Charlie Allmond who achieved one A* and two As and will be heading to Lancaster University in September to study biochemistry.
Boarding student Ioana Ionescu achieved a B and two C grades and heads to Lancaster University to study criminology and law. Some students have chosen to take on apprenticeships, including Luca Furbini who is heading to BAE Systems to take a mechanical machinist on Submarines course.
Head of sixth form Abbie Wilcock said: “We are so happy to see our students celebrate their progress and reap the rewards of all the skills they have gained at Dallam Sixth Form.
“During their time with us they have been leaders and role models for the younger students within our school community. Their achievements go beyond academic – they include performing in school musical productions, sporting success, supporting large school events, buddying up and reading with the younger years and leading on student voice initiatives.
“We are sure that the leadership skills they have demonstrated, along with their academic achievements, will support them to a smooth transition into their next steps.”
Dallam headteacher Steven Henneberry added: “We are incredibly proud of our students for their results this year. Their hard work, resilience, and commitment have truly paid off, and these achievements are a testament to their dedication alongside the guidance of our talented staff and supportive parents and carers. Congratulations to each and every one of you on your success—this is just the beginning of your bright futures.”
St Bees School
St Bees School said its sixth form students have recorded impressive achievements in this year’s A-levels.
Head Andrew Keep said: “It has been a tough year, and standards continue to rise. But we are immensely pleased with students who have achieved their goals and University destinations.”
“At St Bees School, we celebrate not only the academic achievements of our students but also their growth as individuals. This year’s results illustrate the supportive and enriching environment we provide, where students are encouraged to reach their full potential and pursue their passions.
“We are delighted to share that many of our students have secured places at prestigious universities, including The University of Warwick, King’s College London, The University of Manchester, The University of Durham, The University of Lancaster and The University of Newcastle.
“Our gratitude goes out to our dedicated teaching staff, who have provided support and guidance, and to the families of our students, whose encouragement has been invaluable. It is through this strong partnership that our students have been able to thrive.
“As our students embark on the next stages of their journeys, we wish them every success. We are confident that the skills, knowledge, and values they have acquired at St Bees will serve them well in all their future endeavours.”
