Gwynedd's GCSE results better than national average

Aug 21 2008 By Sarah Scott

TEENAGERS across Gwynedd are celebrating their GCSE results this morning with the county’s school pupils gaining better grades than the national average.

The percentage that have passed, gaining grades A* to G, is 99.4% – higher than the national figure.

The percentage gaining the higher grades, A* and A, is 21.8% and grades A* to C is 69.1% – again, significantly higher than the national figures.

Community leaders and education chiefs said they were delighted with today’s pass rate.

Leader of Gwynedd Council Cllr Dyfed Edwards said: "Gwynedd’s excellent results are once again testament to the hard work and dedication of our young people, teachers and parents. The educational success of young people is key to the future of the county.

"I would like to congratulate every one of the young people who has succeeded in the external examinations this summer, and in particular to those who have achieved their potential and have worked hard even though they might not necessarily have gained the highest grades."

Dewi Jones, head of Gwynedd Council’s schools service said: "The GCSE results for 2008 are very good and pupils and staff are to be congratulated on their efforts and success."

He said that he was pleased with the results across the board.

"The results in all subjects are good but it is pleasing to draw attention to the A* to C percentages in Welsh, English, mathematics and science which reflects the emphasis schools place on developing pupils’ basic skills.

"The results in art, drama, French, music, religious studies and physical education are ones that we can be proud of."

Cllr Liz Saville Roberts, the education portfolio leader for Gwynedd Council said: "These results are very good – the pupils are to be warmly congratulated.

"I would like to wish each and every one the very best in the next stage of their education and training.

"I would also like to thank the teachers for their hard work throughout the year and for preparing the students so thoroughly for the examinations."