Recognising achievement on results day 2026

Congratulations to all students receiving their results today

Thousands of students across England are receiving the results of their hard work and dedication today [13 August]. They are collecting grades for A-levels, T-levels and a wide range of vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs).

For many, the day marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. This could be progressing to university, securing an apprenticeship, moving into further education or training, entering employment, or exploring the next steps on their chosen career path.

Education leaders have paid tribute to the determination and resilience shown by students throughout their studies. They also recognised the role played by teachers, school and college leaders, support staff, families and carers in helping young people reach this important milestone.

A message from the education secretary

Education Secretary Lucy Powell congratulated students receiving results today. She highlighted the range of opportunities available to young people as they move on from education into work or further study. She said:

“Good luck to everyone receiving their results today, whether that’s A-levels, T-levels or other vocational and technical qualifications. Whatever the results, every single student and teacher should feel immensely proud of their hard work.

“My priority is making sure every young person has the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the jobs of the future.

“That’s why we’re giving technical education the respect it deserves by rolling out new V-levels to go alongside A-levels, introducing brilliant routes into the careers of the future from age 14, and fully funding apprenticeship training for under-25s. 

“And for those off to university, we’re increasing maintenance loans and reintroducing maintenance grants to ensure no one is held back by their background.

“Whether you’re going into an apprenticeship or job, are off to one of our world-class universities, or are still working out your next steps, there are brilliant options and exciting opportunities ahead.”

A time to celebrate achievement

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, described results day as a moment to celebrate the achievements of students and recognise the support they have received from staff throughout their education. He said:

“Congratulations to all students receiving their results today – whether those are A-levels, T-levels or other vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs).

“This is a moment to recognise and celebrate the hard work, resilience and achievement of students receiving their qualifications. It is also a moment to acknowledge the dedication of teachers, leaders and support staff who have worked tirelessly to teach and guide them along the way.

“Whether students are progressing to university, apprenticeships, further education, training or employment, we wish them every success in the next stage of their journey. Today’s outcomes are an important achievement, but they are just one step on many different paths to future success.”

Supporting the next generation

NAHT also stressed the importance of maintaining a post-16 education system that offers choice and flexibility for future cohorts of students. Paul Whiteman added:

“As these students take their next steps, it is vital that those coming next have access to a post-16 education system that offers genuine choice and opportunity.

“That means protecting a broad and flexible qualifications landscape that values academic, vocational and technical learning equally, ensuring young people can combine different qualifications to follow the right pathway for them, that best reflects their strengths, ambitions and individual learning needs.

“We must also ensure no student is left behind by maintaining a wide range of funded qualifications, including at Level 2 and below, and protecting progression routes, particularly for disadvantaged learners, learners with SEND, young carers and others whose educational journeys may not follow a straightforward or traditional route.

“Finally, schools and colleges need the resources to offer exciting and appealing opportunities regardless of where students live. Young people’s access to courses, training and industry placements should not depend on their postcode. Every student deserves the support and opportunities they need to fulfil their potential.”

More reaction to follow

Throughout the day, further reaction and information will be added as students across the country receive their results.

Whatever today’s results, education leaders are united in recognising the commitment, effort and perseverance shown by students. They wish them success in the opportunities that lie ahead.

Confederation of School Trusts chief executive Leora Cruddas CBE said:

“Many congratulations to all students receiving their level 3 results today.

“Young people have worked exceptionally hard to achieve their qualifications and today must be about their success. These results open doors for young people to move on to the next stage in education, employment, or training.

“It is very good to see an increase in students taking T levels as these qualifications are still relatively new. We should celebrate both the number of students studying maths and the proportion of top grades in maths. This is good for country and the economy, and we are delighted to see this.”