Analysis of provisional results shows that there has been a sustained improvement in performance despite the shake-up of the exams system and a raft of new rules which are only now becoming firmly embedded in the education system.

The Attainment 8 measure, which shows a pupil’s average grade across eight of their best subjects, remains well above the national average.  In the English Baccalaureate Islington’s Average Point Score has improved and also remains well above last year’s national. An impressive one in four pupils achieved three or more of the very top grades (7-9).

As the results came in this morning, Cllrs Kaya Comer-Schwartz and Richard Watts attended St Aloysius and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson schools, along with Mayor of Islington Cllr Rakhia Ismail, to congratulate pupils. Cllr Ismail later also visited Central Foundation Boys’ School.

Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwarz, executive member for children, young people and families, said:

“Congratulations to everyone in Islingtonwho got their GCSE results today. Whether you’re going on to A Levels, vocational qualifications or an apprenticeship, the hard work, determination and talent you’ve shown throughout your course will be a strong foundation for your future success.”

Among those celebrating at St Aloysius was Otnael Samuel, 15, who achieved all 8 and 9 grades. He said: “I feel all the hard work I put in during the past two years has paid off. I’m very happy.” He is going to Woodhouse College, in North Finchley, to study A-levels in accounting, maths and economics. His mum, Yodit and dad Samuel were there to watch him open his results. Yodit said: “I’m so happy and proud.”

Another proud parent at St Aloysius was Agnes Gilbert who said of her son Bhavik Gilbert, 16: “I’m very happy and very excited. I was expecting him to do well today because of all the work he’s put in. I’m a proud mother.” Bhavik got the grades he needed to do A-levels in maths, physics and economics and wants to have a career as a software engineer.

The students at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson school were not to be outdone.

Safiya Abdillahi, 16, said: “I’m really happy with my results. I worked really hard for them so it makes it all worthwhile when I see the results.” She is going to study A-levels in biology, chemistry and maths. “I want to study medicine at university and become a doctor – a lot more hard work is ahead of me but I’m prepared for it.” Her mum Khadra Jirow, summed her daughter’s results up in one word “fantastic!”

Mum Charmian Dawson said she is very proud of her daughter Mariam Muhammed for achieving top grades including two grade 9s. She said: “I’m really, really happy. I’m so proud of her for her achievements and all the hard work she’s done”.

Islington Council is committed to making sure every 16-year-old has an offer of training or education on the table on results day, so they can make the most of their next steps. Members of the council’s Progress team were on hand to offer advice and guidance at the borough’s secondary schools today, and a special Aspire event is being held for students to offer further help in September.

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