TWO-thirds of county students achieved standard passes in English and Maths according to new data.

Worcestershire County Council data shows that two-thirds of students passed their English and Maths GCSEs as results were released yesterday.

The initial data was provided voluntarily by 20 out of 30 schools to Worcestershire County Council. 

A standard pass is equivalent to an old grade C and 45 per cent also achieved strong passes (a grade 5) in these two subjects.

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Students in the 20 schools averaged a pass grade of 4.07 across their English Baccalaureate (EBacc) subjects and 17.5 per cent gained strong passes in all areas of the EBacc.

The EBacc consists of English language, English literature, mathematics, two sciences, history or geography and a foreign language. 

In line with plans set out by Ofqual over two years ago, grades have returned to normal for the first time since the pandemic.

This is to ensure that grades maintain their value and pupils get the result that best represents their performance.

Cllr Tracey Onslow, cabinet member with responsibility for education at Worcestershire County Council, said: "I would like to congratulate our students across Worcestershire on their results.

"Whether that’s progressing to A-Levels or T-Levels or choosing to begin an apprenticeship, I wish all of our pupils every success, as they go forward.

"I would also like to take a moment to thank our teaching and support staff, for their tireless hard work and dedication in ensuring students were well prepared for their exams."

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Anyone gaining results and wanting careers, training or further education advice and support can do so from the Careers Worcestershire Hub at The Hive, Worcester.

The team there can help students explore choices and find the right path for them, no matter what their grades are on results day.

The Careers Worcs Hub is based on the ground floor of The Hive library and is located on the left as you walk through the main entrance.

You can also contact the team online at www.careersworcs.co.uk or call 0300 666 3666.