SIXTH formers across west Cheshire are celebrating A Level results above the national average.

More than 2,100 students in 14 schools across the borough sat exams earlier in the summer.

Over the past few years there has been significant change with A Level reform.

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Reformed A Levels were awarded for the first time in 19 more subjects this year, bringing the total number of reformed subjects to 44. The new A Levels are linear qualifications, with refreshed content, and examinations at the end of the course.

Pupils have returned an overall pass rate of 98 percent – level with the national average.

In west Cheshire, 10 per cent of all awards were at the highest A* grade – the national figure being eight per cent. Meanwhile, 28 per cent of students gained a higher grade A* to A compared to 26 per cent nationally.

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Cllr Nicole Meardon, cabinet member for children and families, said: “A Levels are a testing experience and I applaud the outstanding achievement of students. I also want to thank the hard work of teaching and other staff and the support of parents and carers.

“These results will set students in good standing for their future chosen university or career path. I wish them the very best for the future.

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“We do recognise, however, that this may not be a time of celebration for everyone.

“We are here to offer support and guidance for those students whose results may not be all they had hoped for.”