Results 'worth the wait', A-Level students say

Students receiving their A-Level, T-Level and BTec results say their hard work has paid off, with nearly a third of A-Level grades in Sussex being over an A.

Statistics from exams watchdog Ofqual show that 30.5% of results across East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton and Hove were above an A, while 10.8% of grades were an A*.

The results come against the national picture, where top results across England, Wales and Northern Ireland increased for the third year in a row.

Matilda, 17, who received 3 A* grades at Seaford Head College and is due to go to Oxford to study biochemistry, told BBC Radio Sussex: "I was so nervous that my hands were shaking, but it was definitely worth the wait."

She added: "After the exams I thought they were really, really hard, so I am very pleased."

George, 18, who will study to maths at Bath after receiving two A* grades and an A, said: "It's nice to see everything has paid off."

A spokesperson for Seaford Head College said 41% of students studying for BTecs received a Distinction or Distinction* grade, while 52% received a Merit.

The percentage of students who received a C grade or above in 2026 fell slightly across Sussex compared to 2025, but rose slightly across the wider South East.

Tom Lawson, head teacher at Eastbourne College, said: "It's a really exciting day for our pupils.

"A levels are difficult. It's meant to be hard so students shouldn't beat themselves up too much if there grades aren't the top ones.

"I think almost everyone can find a pathway to something they will really enjoy."

For students who did not get what there were hoping for there are still plenty of options:

• Check Ucas: If you only just miss out on the grades you need, the admissions office might accept you anyway. They may also offer you a place on a different course
• Clearing: If you've missed out on your firm or insurance university choices, you can apply through clearing - which is where universities and colleges list unfilled course places. There will also be a clearing portal for apprenticeships opening later this year
• Get your paper checked: If you missed out on your grade by just a few marks, you might want to consider getting the paper remarked
• Take a year out: You might decide to retake a subject, or reapply for the same course next year in the hope that it's less subscribed. For both these options, a year out can be productive and gives you the chance to work or travel too
• Speak to your school: It's always good to check in with your teachers too, they'll have lots of advice about what steps to take

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