North of England Lags in A-level Results

Recent A-level results have highlighted a significant disparity in academic performance between private and state schools, with private institutions consistently achieving higher grades. In London and the south-east, over 30% of A-level entries were awarded A* or A grades, showcasing some of the best results in the country. The West Midlands, previously a low performer, saw an increase in top grades but still lagged behind with only 24.8% of entries achieving A* or A. The gap in university application rates between regions has also widened, particularly between London and the north-east, which has the lowest application rate. More than half of school leavers in London pursue higher education, compared to only one in three from the north-east. Education expert Elliot Major noted that this trend reflects a two-tier system in A-level results, emphasizing the need for government intervention to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities across the country. Despite the overall rise in top grades, with 9.3% of entries receiving A* and 27.6% achieving A or A*, concerns remain about the widening gap between grammar and non-selective schools. In selective areas like Kent, 41% of grammar school students received A and A* grades, compared to just 17% in non-selective schools. Additionally, T-levels, aimed at enhancing vocational qualifications, have seen high dropout rates and disappointing pass rates. In Northern Ireland and Wales, A-level results also declined, with a notable drop in the percentage of students achieving A or A* grades, indicating a broader trend of educational challenges across the UK.