STUDENTS across Shropshire have been praised for their A-level results.

A Shropshire Council spokesman said that overall entry patterns were similar to previous years with a slight imbalance in favour of vocational qualifications against A-level (academic) qualifications.

She added that some further reforms to A-levels are again a feature this year, with many students now taking the two-year A level qualification.

Karen Bradshaw, Shropshire Council’s director of children’s services, said: “We would like to congratulate all the students for their hard work and commitment in achieving their results. We wish all the students success in the future, including those taking up a university place or those moving into the world of work.

“We would also like to thank everyone who plays a part in Shropshire’s school and college communities. This includes our very skilled and dedicated teachers, headteachers and college principals, governors, support staff, people who contribute voluntarily and, of course, parents and carers who play such an important supportive role.”

For those pursuing the university route, applicants can log into the UCAS Track service at www.ucas.com to check the status of their application.

If students have not been accepted by the university of their choice there are still many places available through clearing.

For those students whose results are different to what they expected, their school or college can provide further advice and guidance.