South East records second-highest A-level results in England

Students across the South East have achieved some of the strongest A-level results in England, with almost a third of entries receiving the top grades.

New figures show 31.5% of entries in the region were awarded an A or A* in 2026, up from 31.3% last year and 28.3% in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. Only London recorded a higher proportion, at 32.7%.

The South East also had the second-highest rate of A* grades among English regions. Some 11.3% of entries received the very top grade, rising from 11.0% in 2025 and 9.0% in 2019. The English average was 9.6%.

The proportion of South East entries awarded a C or above remained unchanged at 79.5%, compared with 78.0% in 2019. It was higher than the England-wide figure of 78.1%.

WEST SUSSEX

Councillor Sam Raby, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “Congratulations to every young person receiving their results today. Reaching this point takes commitment, resilience and a great deal of hard work, and I hope students take time to recognise everything they have achieved.

“I would also like to thank the teachers, school and college staff, parents and carers who have supported young people throughout their studies.

“Results day can bring a mixture of emotions and sometimes plans may change, but no one has to work out their next step alone. Whether you are heading to university, considering an apprenticeship, training or employment, or taking some time to explore your options, advice and support are available.”

The West Sussex County Council Careers Team can provide free information, advice and guidance to eligible young people aged 16 to 24 who live in West Sussex and are not in education, employment or training.

The team can help young people explore opportunities including education, apprenticeships, employment, further training and volunteering.

For more information, visit the council’s careers guidance webpage, email careersadvice@westsussex.gov.uk or call 033 022 22700.

EAST SUSSEX

In East Sussex, council leaders have congratulated young people as they receive their A Level, technical and vocational qualifications today.

Cllr Paul Soane, lead member for education and inclusion, special educational needs and disability at East Sussex County Council, said: “I would like to congratulate all our young people receiving their results today. This is a significant achievement and reflects the hard work, resilience and commitment they have shown throughout their studies.

“I would also like to thank parents, carers, teachers, tutors and support staff in our schools, colleges, sixth forms and training providers for the vital role they play in supporting young people to succeed.

“Today marks an important milestone, but it is also the start of the next stage. Whether students are progressing to university, apprenticeships, employment or further training, there are many opportunities ahead and support available to help them take their next steps with confidence.

“I wish every young person the very best for the future as they continue their journey.”

Cllr Soane added: “We recognise that results day can bring a mixture of emotions. For those who may not have received the results they were hoping for, it is important to remember that there are still many options available. I would encourage anyone who is unsure about their next steps to seek advice and support.”

Parents and young people can contact their school or college for advice on the next steps available. The Youth Employability Service also has information available for 18-year-olds at CXK Resources: East Sussex - 18+ Resources

Cllr Soane said: “We are mindful of the pressures young people can face, particularly around results day. If anyone is feeling overwhelmed or struggling with their mental health, support is available and I would strongly encourage them to reach out.”

HAMPSHIRE

In Hampshire, students across Hampshire receiving their A-level, T-level and vocational qualification results are being congratulated on their achievements.

Hampshire County Council is reminding young people and their families that its free exam results helpline is open for anyone who would like advice about education, training, apprenticeships, employment or university options. 

The helpline is staffed by qualified careers advisers from Hampshire Futures, who can offer impartial guidance to students who are celebrating success, reviewing their plans, exploring different routes or feeling unsure about what to do next. 

Councillor Juliet Henderson, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Education, said: 

“Congratulations to all Hampshire students receiving their Level 3 results. These achievements reflect your hard work, commitment and resilience, and you should feel proud of everything you have accomplished. 

“I would also like to thank the parents, carers, teachers, tutors and wider school and college communities who have supported young people throughout their studies. 

“For anyone who is uncertain about their next step, please remember that there are many different routes to a successful future. Whether you are thinking about university, an apprenticeship, training or employment, our Hampshire Futures team is ready to provide free, friendly and practical advice.” 

Students and families can contact the helpline with questions about a wide range of options, including higher education, clearing, apprenticeships, further training, employment opportunities and alternative pathways.  

The service is available to help young people understand their choices, talk through their situation and make informed decisions at what can be an important and sometimes emotional time. 

The exam results helpline is open on weekdays until Friday 28 August 2026, from 9am to 3pm. Call 03707 796 122 or email careers.service@hants.gov.uk. 

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