GCSE results day 2023: County Durham pupils praised after second year of returning to exams

In the second year of returning to exam-based assessment since the coronavirus pandemic, we are acknowledging the success of pupils receiving their results across the county today.

In County Durham, 62.2 per cent of children achieved the pass grade of four and above in English and maths. This data is slightly above figures for 2019 which was the last time formal exams took place with the same grade boundaries.

Pandemic challenges

Cllr Ted Henderson, our Cabinet member for children and young people's services, said: "I would like to say a big well done to all the students receiving their GCSE qualifications today.

"Not only is this the year when grading has returned to pre-pandemic levels, but it is also the second year of exam-based assessment since covid. While it has been a few years since the pandemic, these pupils will have experienced disruption through their time at school and at the beginning of their GCSE studies. They should all be very proud of what they have achieved today, which is due to their hard work in the face of these challenges.

"Whether you decide to use today's achievements to pursue further education or work placements, there are lots of opportunities for young people in County Durham."