But provisional results show that 62% of Year 11 students in Derbyshire achieved grades A* to C in English and maths − an increase of 3% from last year.

More than 7,500 students across the county’s 45 secondary schools received their results  with many outstanding stories from both schools and individual students.

Councillor Jim Coyle, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:-

“I’m delighted that early indications show our GCSE students have bucked the national downward trend and achieved even better grades than last year.

“GCSEs are an important stepping stone for the future whatever route young people choose to follow, whether that be vocational or academic.

“I want to congratulate all the students for their hard work − and heads, teachers, staff, governors, parents and our school improvement service for supporting our young people in achieving their success.”

Further education or training options for  Year 11 students include full-time education such as sixth form, college or work-based learning, an apprenticeship or part-time education or training if they are employed, self-employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week.

Councillor Coyle added:-

“Young people staying on in education or work-based training can develop better skills, create opportunities and have more chance of fulfilling their learning potential and getting a job they enjoy.

“Even if students don’t do as well as expected in their GCSEs, schools can put them in touch with advisers who can go through all the options open to them. These include a wide range of vocational qualifications and apprenticeships which will be showcased at our Skills Festivals.

“Whatever results students may have received today it’s important for them to know what options are open to them as they stay on in education or training.”

Derbyshire County Council will be hosting a Skills Festival at Queens Park Sports Centre on September 15, aimed at students aged 15 to 19, including those in Year 11 who are considering their options after school.

Training providers, the Armed Forces, larger employers and our community adult education service will be on hand to talk to young people. They will also be invited to take part in a range of have-a-go activities including forensic science, 3D printing and the use of technology in manufacturing.

There will be sessions for young people with special educational needs and disabilities and NEETs (young people who are not in education, employment or training) will also be invited.