Rotherham A Level students have achieved higher grades this year, with provisional results showing a 74.9% pass rate for grades A* to C — an increase of 1.8% compared with last year.

Results were released on Thursday 13 August. Students across the town received 2,573 A Level results and 3,874 A Level or A Level equivalent qualification results.

Pass Rates Above National Average

The overall pass rate for grades A* to E across Rotherham stands at 98.5%, up 0.3% on last year. A Level-only pass rates reached 98.1%, an increase of 0.5%.

Rotherham's performance outperforms the national picture. The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) reported that nationally in England, 78.1% of students achieved grades A* to C, compared with 77.7% last year. The overall national pass rate for grades A* to E is 97.5%.

The proportion of students achieving the highest grades of A* to A rose slightly to 19.3%, up 0.2% from the previous year.

Council Message to Students

Councillor Victoria Cusworth, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Rotherham Council, said: "I would like to congratulate all the young people receiving their results today. These fantastic results represent years of hard work, commitment and determination, and students across Rotherham should be proud of what they have achieved."

She added: "Whether students are moving on to university, apprenticeships, training or employment, these results mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter. I wish them every success as they take their next steps and continue working towards their aspirations."

For those whose results were not as expected, Councillor Cusworth noted that "there are still plenty of opportunities available, and advice and guidance can help you find the right next step for you."

Next Steps and Support

Students considering their future options can access support through the National Careers Service.

Those exploring alternatives to university can look into apprenticeships, which offer the chance to gain skills and experience while earning. Opportunities are available through Rotherham Council and other local employers. Further information on apprenticeship vacancies is available at rotherham.gov.uk/skills-training/find-apprenticeship-vacancies.