Students across Wales and England have finally received their A-level results for 2024, and the outcomes reveal both achievements and challenges. A mixed picture emerges as schools report higher pass rates, but top grades see notable declines.
Starting with Swansea, the city has reported overall A-level results exceeding the Welsh average. The pass rate stands at 97.9%, slightly above the national average of 97.4%.
Among the highlights, 33.7% of Swansea students achieved A-A grades, significantly higher than the 29.9% recorded for Wales as a whole. Also, 77.3% received grades C or above, compared to 76.5% nationally.
These results come from over 600 students across seven Swansea schools, and they primarily reflect grades from the WJEC examination board. Despite overall stability compared to last year's results, there has been a marked drop at the top level as the exam protocols revert to pre-pandemic standards.
Julian Kennedy, headteacher at Olchfa School, expressed pride in his students’ efforts. He stated, “We are very pleased with the results overall, continuing the long tradition of academic excellence at the school.”
This sentiment is echoed by students, such as Harshita Rani, who earned top marks and is set to study architecture at Cardiff University. "I’m very happy with my results," expressed the 18-year-old.
Fellow student Iolo Kennedy has similar reasons to celebrate, with outstanding grades leading him to Bath University for maths. He articulated, "Obviously I’m over the moon," adding he was drawn to the appealing course structure.
While joy fills the air for many, some students felt the pressure of transitioning from GCSEs to A-levels. "I got quite a big shock when I got my AS results," said Harris Perez Celorrio, highlighting the rigorous academic standards.
The move to return to traditional grading processes after COVID has made itself felt across the board. Top A-level grades have dipped to 29.9%, down from 34% the previous year, signaling these changes' impact on student performance.
Philip Blaker, from Qualifications Wales, noted, "This year is the first year where we've got a return to normal assessment and grading arrangements." This shift appears to contribute to the drop-off, particularly at the pinnacle of grade achievement.
Swansea students particularly excelled in maths, with 51.1% of entries receiving A or A grades. This subject remains one of the most popular A-level courses, held up as one of the more challenging disciplines.
Across mathematics, 83.7% of students achieved grades C or above, illustrating both commitment and capability. Further mathematics achieved remarkable statistics with 100% passing, showcasing the prowess of Swansea students.
The wider statistics are encouraging, too. Out of the 1,209 A-level entries across 35 subjects, 27 achieved perfect pass rates and 12 had one-third or more of entries gain top marks.
Subjects such as biology and chemistry also shone, with 25% of entries scoring A* or A grades. Meanwhile, economics and Spanish saw a strong display of results, indicating broad success across the curriculum.
Outside Swansea, schools and colleges across Wales and England echoed similar trends. Colleges reported varying degrees of improvement and decline, with many highlighting the difficulties posed by recent changes.
Many students share feelings of uncertainty about their next steps, with some heading off to university and others exploring apprenticeships or work opportunities. Regardless of their paths, the importance of support networks during this transition continues to be emphasized by school staff.
Kate Garraway's daughter, Darcey, shared her A-level results during a poignant visit to her father's grave on his birthday. This emotional moment highlighted the personal connections and pressures many students face during results time.
Kate Garraway, who has been public about her family’s struggles, posted on social media, congratulating all A-level students for their achievements, irrespective of their results. "Life has a way of working itself out,” she shared encouragingly.
Overall, as thousands of students across Wales and England wrap up another academic year, it’s clear the A-level results reveal much about their hard work. The next stage will be about embracing whatever the future holds for them, buoyed by their achievements.
While Swansea's results offer hope and anticipation, the challenges associated with returning to stricter assessments are some students grapple with. Comprehensive support systems and guidance are key to helping them navigate these new waters as they move forward.
The narrative of A-level results is emblematic of broader educational themes, encapsulating resilience, adaptation, and success. With schools, families, and communities all rallying around their students, the next chapter awaits for these determined learners.
