13 August 2026

Barnsley students celebrate outstanding results in their A-levels

Students across Barnsley are celebrating this week after receiving their A-level results with a brilliant 98.7 percent pass rate.

This is an increase of 0.8 percent compared to last year and 1.2 percent above the national average. The percentage of students in Barnsley achieving a Grade A or A* was 18.7 percent.

At Penistone Grammar School, an impressive 98 per cent of students secured a place at their university of choice, with several achieving four A* grades.

Meanwhile, Barnsley College can celebrate a 98.2 percent overall pass rate. Many students are now preparing to take up places at universities across the country, including Cambridge, Manchester, Leeds, Nottingham, Sheffield and York.

The college’s students also achieved outstanding T-level results, with an overall pass rate of 94.6 per cent surpassing the national average of 92.6 percent and 69 percent of students receiving higher grades of Merit or Distinction.

Councillor Gary Hall, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children’s Services, said:

“Congratulations to all our Barnsley students on their A-level results.

“I know they will have put a huge amount of hard work into studying - they have made us all proud and we wish them well as they move on to the next phase of their lives.

“Our overall pass rate is above the national and average, which is a great credit to all our students.

“Thanks to all the school and college staff, parents and carers who have supported our young people with their education and helped them to achieve their goals.

“For those who may not have received the grades they were hoping for, it’s important to remember that there are still plenty of opportunities available, and help is available if you're unsure what to do next.”

Schools and colleges offer support from dedicated advisers and have a wide range of information available. For students who need to go through the clearing process, the UCAS website has a dedicated webpage for this.

 The National Careers Service  provides information to help young people decide on their next steps, and the exam results helpline can be contacted on 0800 100 900. 

  Some young people may be seeking alternatives to higher education and many employers, including us, offer apprenticeship opportunities which help young people to gain new experiences and work skills. You can find out more on the Apprenticeships at the Council page on our website.

If you’re receiving your A level results and wondering what comes next, Pathways to Work can help you explore your options and take the next step towards employment, training or further learning. Find out more on our web page or contact us via email at pathways@barnsley.gov.uk or call 01226 775270.

Please use this form only if you have a comment about our website. We'll only use the information you give us to improve our online services.
Don't use this form if you need to contact a service, report something to us, or need a response - visit our contact us page instead.
Any feedback submitted using this form is anonymous and you won't receive a reply.

(Don't tell us any personal details such as your name, address or contact details. This feedback is anonymous and you won't receive a response.)