MPs welcome local GCSE successes
27 October 2008
Local MPs Mike Hall & Derek Twigg have welcomed the marked improvement in GCSE results across Cheshire & Halton in the latest Government figures.
GCSE statistics published today show that a record number of pupils are ready for further education and the world of work after getting the benchmark of at least five higher level (A*-C) GCSEs, including English and Maths.
The Borough of Halton is one of the most improved areas for GCSE results from across England.
Over two-thirds of Halton pupils now get 5 or more GCSEs at A*-C Grades, as Halton achieved an 8.6 per cent point increase as the fifth most improved authority in England for 2007-08. When the key indicators of Maths & English are included, Halton is second only to Derby for 2007-08 with an 8.2 per cent point increase.
Nationally across the board, Halton has been the fourth most improved authority since 1998 and the most improved outside London – behind only Hackney, Lambeth, and Kensington & Chelsea. The proportion of Halton’s pupils acquiring 5 or more higher GCSEs has almost doubled in a decade from a quarter to a half of all students.
Halton MP Derek Twigg said: "The local community can justly take pride in these excellent results, which are a testament to the hard work and dedication of students, staff and the Local Education Authority working in partnership to raise standards".
Weaver Vale MP Mike Hall was similarly impressed: "I am delighted with the continuing improvement in our local schools. Making sure our children get the best out of their education is really important. I congratulate all the pupils on all their hard work and the excellent achievements. I now look forward to continued improvements for even better results in the years to come."
