GCSE results show students getting better all the time

26 January 2012

Last summer's record-breaking GCSE results have been confirmed in official government figures released today.

Kent’s secondary schools have improved year-on-year, with the number of students gaining five or more A* to C grades increasing by 3.2 percentage points to 82.5% – three percentage points above the national average.

With 59.4% of pupils achieving five A* to C, including English and maths (up 2.6 percentage points on 2010), Kent schools continue to raise standards and provide good outcomes for the majority of pupils at age 16. 

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Education, Learning and Skills, Mike Whiting, said: “In those key indicators – the five A* to C including English and maths and in all subjects – Kent’s secondary school examination results are once again ahead of the national average. While the focus in August was on individual success, today is about recognising the hard work of headteachers, teachers and support staff who give their all to helping young people learn and prepare for further education, employment and training.”

The Department for Education has published the most detailed set of tables today, giving parents more information than ever before. In the next few years, schools will be challenged to raise standards in the core subjects of English, maths and science, and make sure that disadvantaged students – those on free school meals and looked after children – get better outcomes.

Mike Whiting said: “The Secretary of State has been resolute in his quest to make sure this country has fit-for-purpose education that provides young people with the opportunities and skills they need to compete in a global market. I, and my council colleagues, agree because we too want the very best for children and young people in this county.

“The focus on those from disadvantaged backgrounds is absolutely right. Education is one of the things that shapes a person’s life and can also break that generational cycle of low achievement and low aspiration. The coalition government’s Pupil Premium has added £488 per pupil eligible for free school meals this year, rising to £600 in 2012/13. The challenge is to work with schools to make sure that money is spent effectively and we see that translate into better outcomes for these young people.”