PUPILS across the borough have been congratulated for all their hard work in what was another record-breaking year for school leavers.

Local secondary schools have been reporting their "best results ever" with more and more Oldham youngsters achieving the higher grades.

A total of 71 per cent of pupils managed to gain five or more A*-C grades – up by 6.8 per cent from last year.

The number of those achieving the higher grades including English and maths has also jumped to 46.7 per cent, a rise of 3.6 per cent.

Although this falls short of the council’s target of 47 per cent they remain confident that, with further verifications and appeals outstanding, that goal will be reached.

Cllr Kay Knox, cabinet member for children, young people and families, said: "This is now the ninth consecutive year that we have posted improved results and the early data shows that our schools’ performance has improved in both key government measures. There are also some notable successes – including at Counthill, where the number of pupils awarded five or more GCSEs at A*-C (without English and maths) rose by 37 per cent. However, as an education authority, we are not complacent and realise much hard work remains to be done – even ahead of the introduction of academy schools – to ensure Oldham’s youngsters get the best possible start in life.  These improved results demonstrate the aspirations and commitment of our students to continue their education and training. While this is a time for many to celebrate, some students may not have obtained the grades that they expected. Our message is that help is at hand. If you’ve fallen short on your required grades for college or an apprenticeship, for example, it’s essential to act fast and get the best possible advice."

Connexions had personal advisers on hand at schools across Oldham to offer support an advice to pupils with unexpected grades.

The Union Street office is also open on weekdays from 9am to 5pm with late nights until 7pm from Tuesday to Thursday and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm.

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