STUDENTS in Tameside have today collected their GCSE exam results, which have been graded in line with pre-pandemic levels.

Many local students have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their exams to progress onto sixth form, college, apprenticeships, training or work.  This is a great achievement for students whose education has been significantly impacted since 2020 and both students and school staff should be very proud.

This year, grading has returned to pre-pandemic standards with protection built into the process to recognise the disruption that students have faced during their GCSE courses. This means that national results are  lower than last summer and are comparable with 2019, the last year that summer exams took place before the pandemic.

Tameside Council, schools and colleges have worked hard to ensure that support is in place to help students get on the right post-16 pathways, including the right college course or training option.

Cllr Leanne Feeley, Tameside Council Executive Member for Education, Achievement and Equalities, said: “Congratulations to our Class of 2023 GCSE students on their achievements, which come against a backdrop of disruption to their education due to the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s important that we get back to normal in the exam system so that grades prepare students for college, training or employment in the best possible way, and help them to make the right choices about their next steps.

"Our focus is on ensuring that all our young people are supported to get on the right post-16 pathway for them.”

Positive Steps Careers Service are available to provide independent career advice by calling 0800 484 0407 / 0161 621 9292 or emailing tamesidecareers@positive-steps.org.uk. Anyone who would like advice on their options, or just a friendly face to talk to, can call into the drop in for young people which takes place in the People Place, at the back of Ashton Library in Tameside One, every Wednesday afternoon from 1-4pm.