Councils have congratulated students on their A-level results as they celebrate two years of hard work and look forward to future endeavours.

Across the country there was a dip in the number of pupils receiving A grades or higher, though the overall pass rate remained the same as in 2018.

Girls slightly outperformed boys at national level, and, for the first time ever, the number of girls taking three sciences surpassed the number of boys.

Cllr Amer Agha, who is responsible for schools, employment and skills at Brent Council, said: “A massive well done to all the students who’ve received their exam results.

“I’m confident many of you will have surpassed your own expectations and done your family and your school proud.

“I wish you all the best with whatever the future holds for you. I’m sure the next few months will be exciting and filled with interesting new experiences.”

His words were echoed by Education Secretary Gavin Williamson, who urged the thousands of people leaving school to look forward to the “next chapter of their lives”, whether it be at university, in an apprenticeship or in employment.