A-level grades have dropped, but principal points out that this Covid year group have so much to celebrate.

As A-level results have flooded in to our live blog this morning, students from across Wiltshire have been celebrating their achievements.

Despite the success stories in Wiltshire, A-level grades have dropped nationally.

Not only has the A-level pass rate dropped compared to the pandemic years but it is at its lowest point in the last 15 years.

But for Jason Tudor, principal of Kingsbury Green Academy, this is not a reflection on students' capabilities in a tough year.

“I am incredibly proud of all KGA students,” he said.

"Many people will have forgotten that this is the first time these students have sat high-stakes external exams, following the cancellation of GCSE exams two years ago due to COVID.

"This made preparing for these A-level exams even more challenging, and our students showed their resilience, talent and ability to secure some outstanding grades."

Wiltshire Times: Students from The John of Gaunt School were overwhelmed with emotions.Students from The John of Gaunt School were overwhelmed with emotions. (Image: Newsquest)

Success stories from The John of Gaunt School in Trowbridge this morning include Tyra Donaldson and Georgia Stevens, who will both be going on to study at Oxford University with their collection of As and A*s.

Tyra will read Earth Sciences, whereas Ruby will read, Psychology and Philosophy next year.

“Ruby has worked incredibly hard and deserves her place at Oxford University,” said Mrs Taylor.

Meanwhile, students from Royal Wootton Bassett Academy Sixth Form are going off to study a range of subjects at Oxford University, Exeter Medical School and UCL, including paramedic science, graphics and international relations.

One student earned a fabulous opportunity to study in America on a Sport Scholarship.

Wiltshire Times: These RWBA Sixth Form boys were pleased with their results.These RWBA Sixth Form boys were pleased with their results. (Image: Newsquest)

Abbeyfield School in Chippenham has seen a number of smiley faces this morning as Ollie Seaber, Ella Jefferies, Katie Heaton and Libby Robbins all received all As and A*s.

“It’s really pleasing to see the hard work that they have put in over the past two years pay off for them,” said Headteacher Nick Norgrove.

"This is even more impressive when considering the disruption that these students have faced during their educational journey,” he added.

Wiltshire Times: Abbeyfield School students celebrating good news and good friendships.Abbeyfield School students celebrating good news and good friendships. (Image: Newsquest)

Despite these success stories, there will be several students across Wiltshire that did not get the results they wanted today.

“This year it was always anticipated that A-level grades would be lower than expected for students,” said Dr Nick Smith, course director and founder of The Oxford Open Learning Trust.

Students that do not receive the grades they anticipated should initially speak to their school or college who can offer help and advice about options available, including clearing, appeals, and alternative paths.