Today, Thursday 22 August, more than 500,000 pupils across the country are receiving their GCSE results. This year’s data shows that more than one fifth of entries have achieved a grade 7 or above.
Today’s results are also show entries to EBacc subjects have risen by 3.7%. This refers to foreign languages, maths, English, science and humanities – subjects which all develop useful skills and prepare pupils for their next step.
Entries in Spanish and French have risen this year by 3.7% and there has also been a 7.6% rise in computing, which builds the skills young people need to thrive in the technology industries.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
Congratulations to all of those who are picking up their GCSE results today – I remember the nerves and excitement that came with waiting for mine like it was yesterday.
Today’s results show pupils are going on to further study and the world of work with the best possible foundations, focusing on the academic cornerstones of education while also stretching themselves creatively.
The opportunities that await them are the best they’ve ever been, so whether they go on to do A levels, an apprenticeship, technical or vocational qualification, they will do so with the skills they need to thrive in 21st century Britain, and support this country as we build for the future.
We will continue to drive up school standards right across the country, do more to continue to attract and retain talented individuals in our classrooms, and give teachers the powers they need to deal with bad behaviour and bullying.