Students across Cumbria are celebrating getting their A-level results today.
Sixth formers and college students across the county have been busy tearing open A-level, T-level BTec and other Level 3 course results since 8am this morning.
It’s a big day for many youngsters and even if the results aren’t what they hoped for – there are multiple options, support systems and pathways available to help them take their next steps into the future.
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.”
Early indications are showing improved Level 3 results across Westmorland and Furness for A-level and T-level results compared to 2024.
Level 3 results are still subject to change until they are validated by the Department of Education, so the council is unlikely to have a complete picture of the results until the end of September 2025 to compare against the national outcome.
Milorad Vasic, director of children’s services at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “I want to offer my congratulations to all our students receiving their A-level and T-level results today.
“You should be incredibly proud of the work you have put in. Whether you’re heading to university, starting an apprenticeship, or exploring new opportunities, well done and best of luck for the exciting journey ahead.”
Councillor Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills, added: “Congratulations to all the young people receiving their results today.
“These achievements are the result of years of dedication, supported by families, teachers, and school staff. Whatever path you choose next, I wish you every success and remember today is just the beginning.”
We’re sharing some of your results stories below – have we missed your story? Let us know by emailing [email protected]
Ullswater Community College, Penrith
Penrith’s Ullswater Community College is celebrating another year of improved results.
Headteacher Stephen Gilby, said: “Once again we have seen year-on-year improvement at UCC. We are enormously proud, and continue to be ambitious for all our students.
“These results are a reflection of the high-quality teaching, learning and positive relationships nurtured throughout our wonderful school.
“Here at UCC, we couldn’t be more proud to serve the Penrith community and of everything our students have achieved this year. They have shown dedication, determination and resilience; their achievements are well deserved.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate all young people at UCC and across Cumbria on the results that they will receive this week and wish them well for the future.”
A total of 35 per cent of the year group achieved A*/A grades in two or more subjects or their equivalent at Level 3 study.
These include: Mischa Askins, Emily Atkinson, Hannah Binks, Esme Everingham, Finnly Celikel, Grace Fernie, Grace Gardiner, Katie Greenwood, Annabelle Haughan, Evie Holme, Courtney Kirkwood, Jamie Lancaster, Kacey MacKey, Olivia McKinnon, Ella Murray, Kizzy Perez-Perez, Aimee Powell-Currie, Robert Prince, Mia Reynolds, Jessica Rudd, Charlotte Savage, Francesca Shaw, Evie-Rose Sugden, Scarlett Turnbull, Izzy Weetman and Neve Winder.
Rob Jackson, Head of sixth form, added: “I am incredibly proud of each and every student in this remarkable year group. Their exceptional results are a testament not only to their academic ability but also to their dedication, resilience, and sheer hard work over the past two years.
“Myself and all their teachers have thoroughly enjoyed working with them throughout their time in our sixth form. They have shown integrity, maturity, and a strong sense of community and today they are reaping the rewards of their efforts with results that reflect their true potential.
“Every year our students secure their next steps with places at the most competitive universities and high-quality apprenticeships, beginning this September.
“These include Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities, and degree-level apprenticeships with the county’s largest employers, alongside local companies and a variety of specialist programmes that will set them on a path to future success.
“On behalf of everyone at Ullswater Community College, we congratulate our Year 13 students and wish them all the very best in the next stage of their journey.”
St Bees School
St Bees School is celebrating its best A-level results in recent years.
It said many of its students are also set to progress to leading universities across the UK and abroad/
The school added that students have shown a remarkable dedication to their studies and personal development, even in the face of a rapidly evolving academic landscape.
A total of 67 per cent of A-level grades were at A*-B, a huge jump from 49 per cent in 2024 and the highest in recent years. The proportion of A*-A grades also rose to 37 per cent, up from 31 per cent last year.
This year’s cohort is heading to some of the UK’s top universities, including the University of Edinburgh, the University of Lancaster, the University of Manchester and Loughborough University.
Special recognition goes to William (reading mathematics at the University of Manchester), Andrii (reading computer science at the University of Edinburgh), Raven (reading business management at the University of Lancaster), Suproto (reading natural sciences at Loughborough University) and Johan (with top results is now exploring options in the UK and abroad).
Headmaster Mr 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.”
The Lakes School, Troutbeck Bridge
The Lakes School is celebrating not only a bumper A-level results day – but also 60 years since it first opened.
It said its group of Year 13 students have proven not only academic excellence in their results but also the determination and ambition.
The school added that the success of its students is measured not just in grades, but in the diverse and inspiring paths they are now set to follow.
Many are progressing to respected universities across the country, while others are beginning competitive apprenticeships, taking gap years to explore new opportunities or starting employment both in the UK and abroad.
Overall, 50 per cent of grades achieved were at A*–A, with 67 per cent at A*–B, reflecting the hard work and high aspirations of the cohort.
Headteacher Sharon Rainey said: “The class of 2025 have been exceptional. They have worked hard, shown real resilience and demonstrated the qualities that will serve them well in life. Whether moving into higher education, starting careers or pursuing other ambitions, we know they will go on to achieve great things.”
West Lakes Academy, Egremont
West Lakes Academy is celebrating a strong set of A-level results this year.
Many students have secured places at top universities, apprenticeships, and industry placements.
Among those celebrating today are:
Beth Blythe, who will complete a year-long placement at React Engineering through the React Futures Programme before heading to Lancaster University to study biology. Beth will return to React as a graduate when she has completed her degree.
She said: “I am really happy with my grades and excited to start my year in industry before heading to uni.
“I applied for the programme with React and feel really lucky to have been successful and that I can study my chosen STEM subject at Lancaster next year.”
Sophie Hoyle, who got a distinction, B, B and Ellie Lawson who got a distinction, A, D. Both students are celebrating getting the results they needed to begin degree-level apprenticeships with Sellafield.
Thomas Pavey, who got A, A, B, said: “I’m feeling over the moon, I got what I wanted and more to study physics at Newcastle University. I’m a bit nervous about leaving home but really excited too.
“The exams were quite stressful but my family were really supportive.”
Ellen Sherwen, who got a distinction*, B, C, is heading to Harper Adams University to study land management. She celebrated her results with her mum, Marie.
Josh Gibbs got B, B, distinction and will study international disaster management and humanitarian response at Manchester University.
He said: “I worked hard during my exams and I’m happy that I’ve got the grades needed to get on to my course at Manchester. It’s a bit nerve-wracking moving away but I’m excited to see what it’s like.”
Abigail Hill got A*, C, distinction. She said: “I can’t even say how I’m feeling, I’m just so happy I passed biology and that it’s all done now.
“I’m going to York to study Physiotherapy. I knew I wanted to study something healthcare related and possibly linked to sports and the open day at York convinced me this was the course for me, I’m really excited.”
Stephen Grant, headteacher said: “We are extremely proud of our students and the results they have earned. Every grade is the outcome of sustained effort, commitment, and the invaluable support of families and our dedicated staff.
“Our students have met challenges with determination, grown in confidence, and are nowexceptionally well prepared to take their next steps in education, employment, or training.”
Maria Stott, head of sixth form, added: “It is a privilege to see so many elated students receiving their outstanding and hard earned A Level and BTEC results.
“These students have chosen to stay in education and commit to two years of indepth study in their chosen subjects. This has resulted in excellent outcomes for our students who are now opening doors to their next steps.
“It is moving to see our young people being rewarded for their efforts, leaving us to enter into the next phase of their life, taking their place in society and continuing
to realise their full potential.
“We are so proud of each of them and wish them all the very best for their futures!”
Dallam School, Milnthorpe
Dallam school is celebrating the achievements of 53 students in this year’s A level and BTEC examinations.
Overall A-level results have improved, with average grades rising by half a grade per student. The percentage of A*-C grades increased by 21.5 per cent, and A*-B grades by 13.9 per cent.
Pupils are moving on to a variety of destinations, including university, apprenticeships, and gap years. They include:
- Amelia Knox who achieved A* grades in psychology and drama and theatre studies, and an A in biology, will be studying psychology at the University of Southampton.
- Jack Hemsley earned an A in biology, an A in geography, and an A* in history, and he will take a gap year before taking up geography.
- Boarder Kai Allsop gained an A in Spanish, a B in business, and a B in criminology, and will be reading international business management at the University of Reading.
- Matthew Gornall will begin a degree apprenticeship at the University of Salford.
Amelia said: “I definitely thrived on the small class sizes and one on one, and I got started early with my revision. I am really pleased that my friends have got into their first choice universities too.”
Jack, who was also the student voice leader at Dallam, said wider skills he’s gained will help him with what’s to come in his gap year. He will volunteer in Malaysia on conservation and housebuilding projects before tackling a Borneo rainforest expedition.
Head of sixth form Sophie Burrows said: “We are incredibly proud of all our sixth form students. We are excited to see where their next steps take them and how they go on to use the plethora of academic and personal skills they’ve gained here. We are confident they will go on to achieve amazing things and wish them every success for the future.”
Headteacher Steven Henneberry added: “I’m so proud of this group of young people. They’ve worked hard, supported each other, and shown real determination. Today isn’t just about grades – it’s about the people they’ve become and the exciting journeys they’re about to start.”
Caldew School, Dalston
Caldew School said it is delighted with its students A-level results this year.
Vicki Jackson, headteacher, said: “I would like to congratulate all of our students on achieving excellent results this year. They have worked incredibly hard and have shown a real determination to succeed. We are very proud of them”
“I would also like to thank all the teachers and support staff at Caldew School for their hard work and commitment that has resulted in our students being so successful.
“I would also like to thank parents and carers who have worked with us in supporting their children. I am very proud to see our Year 13 students progress to the next stage of their lives, whether this be at university, on to an apprenticeship or into the work place. I would like to take this opportunity to wish them every success.”
Mr Gaunt, head of sixth form, added: “It has been a privilege to work with this year group; they were an enthusiastic and hardworking group of students. I wish them every success in the future.”
The vast majority of Caldew School’s students will be able to attend their first choice university, and will study courses including medicine, law, the sciences, mathematics, engineering and the arts at some of the country’s top universities.
Vicki Jackson added: “We are very proud of our Year 13 students and what they have achieved. They have been a wonderful year group who have shown determination, resilience and a great work ethic throughout their time at Caldew School.
“We will miss them. They fully deserve these excellent results.”
Standout performances from students included:
- Freya Laidlow who achieved 3 A* in biology, chemistry and physics. She will be going to study medicine and surgery at the University of Newcastle.
- Erin Dixon who achieved 3 A* grades in biology, history and EPQ and grade A in English literature. She will be going to the University of Cambridge to study law.
- Millie Roberts-Koren who achieved grade A* in EPQ, grade A in biology, grade B in PE and grade C in maths. She will be going to Newcastle University to study zoology.
- Jacob Bimson who achieved A* in maths, grade A in EPQ and 2 grade Bs in physics and business studies. He will be going to Newcastle University to study maths.
- Alexis Wallace who achieved a distinction in health and social care, grade B in English literature and grade C in psychology.
- Grace Henshaw achieved a distinction in health and social Care, B in criminology and grade C in psychology. She will be going to Edge Hill University to study mental health nursing and social work.
- Olivia Boertien achieved 2 grade As in psychology and EPQ and 2 grade Cs in biology and English literature. She will be going to University in Liverpool.
- Grace Heaney who achieved a distinction in applied science, 2 grade Bs in EPQ and criminology and grade C in PE. She will be going to the University of Salford to study sport rehabilitation.
- Samia Khatun who achieved 3 grade Bs in biology, chemistry and core maths and grade C in PE. She will be going to the University of Birmingham to study nursing.
- Rhys Bainbridge who achieved 3 grade Bs in chemistry, maths and physics. He will be going to study aerospace engineering at the University of Central Lancashire.
- Oliver Beattie who achieved 4 grade Bs in criminology, media, psychology and EPQ. He will be going to do an apprenticeship.
- Harley Picken who achieved 3 grade Bs in psychology, criminology and core maths and grade C in biology. He will be going to the Liverpool John Moores University to study sports journalism.
- William Hartley who achieved grade A in EPQ, 2 grade Bs in psychology and media and grade C in English literature. He will be going Lancaster University to study film studies.
Lakes College, Lillyhall
Lakes College at Lillyhall, near Workington, saw 97 per cent of students who applied to university securing a place, alongside many others progressing into apprenticeships and employment.
75 per cent of T-level learners achievers secured a merit or distinction. T-levels are two-year technical qualifications, equivalent to three A-levels, developed with
employers to meet industry needs.
Lakes College was one of the first providers in the country to deliver T-levels in 2021.
Principal Chris Nattress said: “We are incredibly proud of all our learners and the outstanding results they have achieved this year.
“T-levels provide a fantastic combination of academic knowledge and practical experience, and these results are a reflection of the commitment shown by our students and staff.
“It’s wonderful to see so many progressing into their chosen careers, higher education, or skilled employment – they are an inspiration to future learners.”
Libby Cross, who completed her T-level in Health, is heading to Northumbria University to study Adult Nursing.
She said: “I’m proud of my results. The mix of practical and theory gave me real hands-on experience – even leading to a job from my placement.”
Natasha Bell, who studied T-level Science, will begin her degree at the University of Cumbria after gaining experience on placement, which led to a summer job. She said: “My work placement was brilliant – it gave me a real insight into working in a professional environment and showed me what’s possible.”
Harley Bowness, a T-level Digital student, is joining Cumbria police through the degree entry route.
He said: “Work placements showed me industry standards like professionalism, and gave me a real insight into jobs in the digital industry. However, this course allowed me to keep my options open, and I’ve been able to take my transferrable skills into my path to policing.”
As well as T-level students, learners on other Level 3 courses who had completed their studies also collected their results on the day, celebrating alongside their peers.
Didn’t get the results you wanted?
If your results aren’t what you hoped for, don’t worry, there are many options and support systems available to help you make the right choice for your future. Remember – grades don’t define you.
As well as your school or college, other support is also available from the following: UCAS: www.ucas.com/clearing-launch
The National Careers Service Exam Results Helpline is available from today until Friday 1 September for young people who need help or advice around exam results or next steps.
To speak to a careers adviser, call 0800 100 900. Lines are open from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 5pm on Saturday.
The Inspira website is also a great place to find careers advice and guidance on next steps.
