Pupils across County Durham have received praise for their GCSE results following a period of uncertainty throughout their studies.
Durham County Council has commended students on their hard work and thanked pupils, teachers, school staff and families for their dedication to learning, despite unprecedented challenges throughout the pandemic.
Results have once again been based on teacher assessment following significant changes to learning during both national lockdowns and, for many, periods of self-isolation.
In County Durham, results are consistent with last year in which we saw a higher proportion of pupils achieving a grade five and above in English and maths, a higher proportion of children achieving the pass grade of four in English and maths, and a greater percentage of pupils achieving success in science, humanities and languages.
Cllr Ted Henderson, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “On behalf of everyone at the council, I would like to congratulate pupils for their excellent work and results. The grades awarded to these young people are a fair and accurate reflection of their dedication in the most testing of times.
“We are hugely grateful for the hard work of teachers and school leaders in ensuring students have achieved the grades they deserve, allowing them to progress to the next stage of their lives. I would also like to pay tribute to the parents, carers and families of those who have collected their results this week. Home learning has been a challenge for everyone as they juggled work, studying and family time, and today’s results are a reflection of everyone’s efforts.
“GCSEs are important but if you did not get the results you want, please do not worry. There are many paths to success and support is available, so make sure you seek advice and access the help on offer.”
Pupils who did not receive the grades they hoped for and those looking for careers advice can visit www.durhamworks.info where they will find information on apprenticeships, recruitment and training for 16 to 24-year-olds across the county.
There is more information about the council’s apprenticeship programmes and adult learning and employability courses at www.durham.gov.uk/jobsandcareers
Meanwhile, the mental health and wellbeing community Kooth is offering support to young people via its website www.kooth.com and social media channels, @KoothUK on Facebook or @Kooth_UK on Instagram.
The charity Young Minds also offers support and guidance online at www.youngminds.org.uk.