Students in the Island's sixth forms studied in 41 subjects, taking an average of 4.1 A-levels each - a new record. These included traditional academic areas, such as chemistry and mathematics, through to more modern subjects like World Development and Critical Thinking.

Early indications show the majority of those receiving results have been successful in securing their first choice place at university. Whilst many will head to the UK, some have chosen to study at the International Business School on the Island.

Not all A-level recipients will go straight into their degrees. Some will spend a gap year working, whilst others may go travelling. One student from Ballakermeen High School plans to work as a sports coach in Senegal, before studying Sport Development at the University of Central Lancashire next year.

The average UCAS points score is slightly down from 323 in 2008, to 317 this year. That equates to an average of one A grade and two Bs per student. Co-ordinating advisor for 11 to 19 education, Paul Craine says: 'When you average that out over 1,300 entries it's virtually identical to last year.'

UCAS points are used by some universities as an admissions test rather than grades. For example, a student applying to Leeds Metropolitan University to study English Literature would have needed 220 UCAS points, which is equivalent to two C grades and a D, but could include any combination of grades adding up to 220 points or more.

Sixth form teachers play a big role in helping those who haven't got the grades they were hoping for.

Ballakermeen's assistant head teacher Paul Kane says: 'They come into their own in ensuring all of our students get the place that they wanted or at least a place at a university or other institution, so nobody is walking away with nothing at the end of the day.'

Paul Craine has warned against directly comparing the Island to the UK. The results from the Isle of Man are compiled exclusively from A levels entered by sixth form students. Similar statistics released in the UK tomorrow (Friday) will include those achieved in college's, independant schools and mature students.
Source www.manxradio.com