GCSE results success for Hartlepool students

Early indications show that the 2019 results in Hartlepool are generally in line with last year’s – reflecting the emerging national picture - but students across Hartlepool schools also look to have done particularly well in mathematics and English, with improvements in pass rates in both those core subjects.

Following on from the changes made in the last two years to the grading system for all subjects, GCSE subjects in England are being graded from 9 to 1, with 8 being roughly equivalent to the old A* grade. The old C grade has been replaced by two new gradings - 4 for a pass and 5 for a strong pass.

Amanda Whitehead, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Assistant Director (Education), said: “Having visited Hartlepool schools and academies this morning it has been uplifting to see successes being celebrated.

“Our students appear to have done particularly well in mathematics and English. There is still much checking to be done by staff in schools and I would normally expect the overall picture to improve slightly once the checking processes are completed in the autumn term.

“These GCSE results mean that more of our young people will be able to study the subjects they want to in our sixth forms or colleges, or start the training courses or apprenticeships they want to do.”

Councillor Leisa Smith, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “Many congratulations to all the students who have sat their GCSEs this year – they have put in a lot of hard work to reach this point. I would also like to pay tribute to the teachers, parents and carers who have guided, supported and encouraged them.

“I am especially pleased that at this early stage it looks like Hartlepool students have done particularly well in English and mathematics, which are the key foundations for future study and career success.

“We are very proud of all our students and I wish them lots of luck and success on whatever path they take in the future.”