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For the first time in three years, A-Level students are receiving their grades after sitting summer exams.

Summer exams were cancelled in both 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic – with teacher-predicted grades awarded instead.

Thousands of pupils across Wales headed into schools on Thursday morning to find out their grades, while many of those studying vocational courses received their Level 3 results.

In Wales, more than 40% of grades achieved were A* and A grades, a decrease from 48.3% last year – but still significantly higher than the 29.9% in 2020.

In total, 85.3% of grades awarded were between A* and C grades, a slight decrease on the 89.2% recorded last year, but still up on pre-pandemic levels.

Ninety-eight per cent of grades awarded were between A* and E, with 35,499 exam entries this year.

Among the pupils achieving top grades was 18-year-old Cameron Price, from Blackwood.

Cameron studied Biology, Chemistry and Maths at Coleg Gwent, achieving one A* and two A grades. He is now going off to study Biomedical Science at Cardiff University with the aim of becoming a doctor.

Meanwhile, Coleg y Cymoedd student Abby McTiffin, 18, from Caerphilly, has secured her place at Swansea University to study Biology Sciences after getting an A* and two A grades.

She said: “I’ve always liked helping people think the perfect route for me would be two become a biology teacher as it would combine my love of the subject and my goal to assist others.”

Wales’ Education Minister, Jeremy Miles, congratulated everyone receiving their results and said: “It’s a huge day for you, the culmination of years of hard work, and I hope you got the grades you’d hoped for.

“We know what a challenging couple of years it’s been for students and staff. For everyone involved in ensuring this year’s exams could take place, today is reward for all the hard work you have put in.

“A record number of young people from Wales will be going to university this year and have an exciting time ahead.”

He continued: “For anyone who didn’t quite get the results you wanted, or you’re unsure of your next steps, my key message is – don’t be too disappointed and don’t be too hard on yourself. There are a wide range of options open to you, including university clearing, apprenticeships, even starting your own business. 

“Careers Wales is a great place to start for advice and your school or college will be there to support you too.”

Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Carol Andrews, said: “I hope you’re all pleased with your results given the obstacles you’ve overcome these past couple of years due to Covid.

“I wish you all the very best when deciding what path you’re going to take in the future, you and your families should be very proud of what you’ve accomplished so far.

“I hope you all enjoy your celebrations and a well-deserved break.”

This year’s GCSE results will be announced on Thursday, August 25.