Minor fall in Cumberland A-Level results contrasts with national outcome

Students receiving exam results

Early indications of a minor fall in Cumberland A-Level results is a positive against the sharp fall in national results.

Following the high emotion of A-Level results day, a picture of the overall performance of students in Cumberland is beginning to emerge; with a minor fall contrasting to the national record fall in results.

This summer marked the first time students returned to exam-based assessments, following teacher-assessed grades received during the Covid pandemic. 

Nationally, there has been a significant reduction in A-Level results this year, as grading readjusts to pre-pandemic levels.  It was expected that Cumberland results would mirror this performance.

However, early indications show that Cumberland students at Level 3 (A-Level and equivalent examinations) have received results only slightly below the teacher-assessed results of 2022.  Average Level 3 points received per student this year was 34.28, compared to 34.63 last year.  A minor fall of only -0.35, and not as severe as reported national results.

Level 3 results are subject to change as they enter a period of validation, with the final collective performance of Cumberland students available later this year.

Councillor Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development, said:

“Congratulations to all of Cumberland’s students receiving their A Level results.

“I’d like to recognise the hard work of our young people.  If you didn’t get the results you were hoping for – don’t panic – you still have plenty of options and support available.

“Whatever your results, it is now time for you to focus on the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“I’d like to thank all the head teachers, teachers, parents and carers in supporting our young people in getting to this point, and I’m sure they will join me in celebrating their achievements.”

Students will now be focusing on the opportunities ahead – be that Further Education, Higher Education, Employment and/or Training.

Councillor Lynch added:

“I’d also like to remind our school leavers about the range of career opportunities we have within Cumberland Council. 

“Later this year, we’ll be launching our next round of apprenticeships – where you can benefit from on-the-job work experience, achieve a nationally recognised qualification and of course earn while you learn.”

Disappointed by your results?


While most students will likely now have the grades they need for their next steps, options are available for those who have missed out on the grades they were aiming for.  

If any student is unhappy with their A or AS level grade, they have the opportunity to re-sit an exam in the autumn, or, in certain circumstances, to appeal the grade through their school or college.

Other support is also available from the following:

Inspira:  www.inspira.org.uk/a-level-results-day-2023
 

UCAS:  www.ucas.com/clearing-launch

The National Careers Service Exam Results Helpline is available from today until Friday 1 September for young people who need help or advice around exam results or next steps. To speak to a careers adviser, call 0800 100 900. Lines are open from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 5pm on Saturday.