The number of GCSE passes in Coventry is rising even faster than the national average,

Over the last decade, figures have improved by 10.6 per cent across the country for people gaining at least five results of grade C or above.

Local figures show that for the latest GCSEs, Coventry pupils passed 40.8 per cent of their exams, while in Warwickshire the figure was 51 per cent, slightly up on last year.

Councils say they are pleased that more young people are taking NVQ qualifications alongside their GCSEs. 

Cllr George Duggins, Coventry cabinet member for education and library services, said:

"We are delighted with this year's results. They show what can be achieved in a city which is extremely committed to providing high quality education for all out youngsters. 

"They are testimony to the hard work of students, teachers and parents and I add my personal congratulations on behalf of Coventry City Council to all concerned. 

He said not all candidates will have hit the grades they wanted or needed but added: 

"My message to those young people is - don't give up. Learning is a life-long process and help is at hand from your teachers, the schools' careers officer and from the career's services, and their help line number is 024 7668 4039.

Cllr Richard Grant, Warwickshire County Council cabinet member of education, said: 

"It is thrilling to be able to announce yet anther significant advance for GCSE results in Warwickshire.

"I would like to congratulate all the students concerned.

"Credit for their achievement, of course is due to the extremely hard work of our secondary school teaching sand non-teaching staff and indeed to staff in primary and nursery schools and the students' parents. I Offer my thanks to them all."