We’re congratulating our GCSE pupils on receiving their exam results this morning, with increased performance in most measures compared to last year’s figures.
In total, 62.7% of Barnsley’s 2,445 students who sat their GCSEs at our mainstream schools achieved a Grade 4 or above in both English and Maths, an increase of 0.6% from 2023’s figures.
Councillor Trevor Cave, Cabinet spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: “Congratulations to all the students who picked up their GCSE results today; it’s a big day for them and I’m sure there is lots of cause for celebration as we’ve seen some excellent performances from our schools.
“It’s fantastic to see improved performances across most of the measures compared to 2023 – it's clear that the hard work of the students has paid off. A huge thank you also goes to the teachers, parents and carers who have supported our young people through their education.
“If you haven’t got the results you wanted or were expecting, there is plenty of support available for you in taking your next steps.”
Two of the nine ambitions in our Children and Young People’s plan are that children and young people get a good education, are ambitious and able to reach their potential; and that the council and its partners on the Barnsley Children and Young People’s Trust will work strategically to achieve more and better outcomes for children, young people and families in the borough
We want Barnsley to be the place of possibilities where every young person can achieve their goals, whether through a placement, higher education, or employment. The Trust is working hard to continue to improve the attainment of Barnsley’s children and young people.
We remain committed to working with all our schools through the Barnsley Schools Alliance to continue to improve the education of every child in the borough.
Local support for pupils who did not get the results they had hoped for is available through their schools. Our partners at Barnsley College also offer guidance, support and further education opportunities to young people in the borough. Find out more about what’s available at barnsley.ac.uk.
The National Careers Service (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk) also provides broader information to help young people decide on their next steps, and the exam results helpline can be contacted on 0800 100 900.
Some young people may be seeking alternatives to further education and many employers, including us, offer apprenticeship opportunities which help young people to gain new experiences and work skills. You can find out more at barnsley.gov.uk/services/jobs/apprenticeships.
People of all ages can explore opportunities and support for learning, training, work or volunteering at our Skills and Employability event on Saturday 7 September (9am-4pm). Join us at the Glass Works Square and the Library @ the Lightbox, where partners and advisors will be on hand to help you explore what’s possible.
