Lancashire pupils received top praise for putting on an A grade performance

Because schools were closed to all but a few due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year’s results have been based on an assessment model.

Exam boards used a statistical process to decide on the final grades awarded.

These were based on teacher assessments of the grades their students may have achieved if exams had gone ahead as well as mock exam results.

Lancashire schools performed well, with some seeing better than expected results while others saw new records set.

The county’s cabinet member for children, young people and schools Councillor Phillippa Williamson said: “Because of the pandemic students were unable to sit their final exams, which must have been extremely disappointing for them as they had spent so long working towards them.

“However, I am pleased that their progress across their courses has been taken into account and I hope that they feel that they have been awarded the grades they deserve.

“They should be proud of what they have achieved through such an extraordinary time.

She added: “I would like to congratulate all the young people who have been recognised for their hard work, and also the teachers who have supported them.

“I wish them all every success as they move on to the next stage of their lives, whatever they choose to do.”

Next week’s GCSE results, due out on Thursday, will also be based on teacher assessment, mocks and a similar national exam board model.

Nationally, A-level results in England were higher at grade A and above compared to 2019 (27.6 per cent in 2020, compared with 25.2 per cent in 2019).

The majority of grades awarded to students were said to be the same or within one grade of the centre assessment grades – 96.4 per cent at A level and 91.5 per cent at AS.

Local fibres are not yet available.

Students who are not happy with their calculated grade can ask their school or college about the appeals system or they can choose to sit an exam in the autumn.

Advice is also available for young people whose results aren't as hoped for, or who may want advice on what options are now available to them.

Lancashire's young people can get support through their school or local college and can also contact Talkzone, the county council's advice and support service. It can be accessed by phone, text, webtalk, email and Facebook.

During the current coronavirus pandemic, the service has been extended so that it is available from 8.30am to 10pm from Monday to Friday. It is also available from 2 to 10pm at weekends and on Bank Holidays.