MORE students achieved high A-level grades in the borough this year, with an increase of 1.5 per cent.

St Helens secondary schools and Carmel College had 48.2 per cent of their A-level entries graded at A* to B, compared to 52.9 per cent nationally.

In addition, the proportion of A-level exam entries in St Helens that resulted in a pass grade (which is between and A*and an E), is slightly higher than the national figure of 97.9 per cent.

Results at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre show a nine per cent increase in students achieving A*to C grades, and there were improvements in the percentages of GCE A-level entries graded A*to B at Cowley International College, Rainford High Technology College and Sutton Academy.

It has been harder this year for students though as the new standards have been introduced to certain subjects, with some A-level grades now decided solely on final exams, rather than taking coursework or past AS-level results into account.

Cllr Jeanette Banks, St Helens Council’s cabinet member for education, said: “We salute the achievements of all our young people who took their A-level exams this summer.

“These results are a great testimony to not only the students who have worked tremendously hard over the last year, but also to the schools and colleges for providing top quality education.

“It’s important to stress to those who didn’t achieve the results they were hoping for not to panic, as there are still plenty of opportunities open to them - and support and advice will be available at their local sixth form or college.

“I wish everyone all the very best in their future endeavours.”