Monmouthshire's cabinet member for education says the county's A-Level students have had a "wonderful year".

98.7 per cent of all students taking the WJEC examination passed with grades A*-E, surpassing the Welsh average of 97.6 per cent.

Within this figure, 23.4 per cent of students achieved the top grades of 'A*' and 'A' and 78.1 per cent achieved 'A*-C'.

Students at 'AS' Level, were equally successful with 93.6 per cent attaining grades A-E, significantly exceeding the Welsh average of 86.4 per cent, and 21.8 per cent of students achieved the top grade of 'A'.

Again this significantly exceeds the Welsh average of 16.1 per cent.

County councillor Liz Hacket Pain, cabinet member with responsibility for education, said: "A wonderful year, as far as results are concerned, for Monmouthshire students.

"The 'A' and 'AS' levels are certainly achievements to be proud of for students and parents alike. Well done. I am delighted with the results and I wish them well for the future."

From September, Monmouthshire County Council will be working closely with the new Education Achievement Service (EAS) for South East Wales.

The EAS was formed by Monmouthshire, Torfaen, Blaenau Gwent, Newport and Caerphilly councils to provide increased levels of challenge and support to schools.

The service will work with governors, school leaders and staff to improve the learning experiences of children and young people and, through this, enhance their success in national examinations and opportunities for employment.

Students looking for advice, no matter what their results, are encouraged to visit the Careers Wales website on http://www.careereswales.com">www.careereswales.com

Pictured are pupils from Monmouth School and Monmouth Comprehensive celebrating their results