A-Level Results Reveal Record Regional Disparities in England 2026

A-level results reveal record regional disparities in England, with London far ahead of other areas. The gap in top grades between the capital and the north-east has reached its highest level since the pandemic, highlighting deep educational inequality across the country.

Record Regional Disparities in A-Level Results

This year's A-level results show that 32.7% of candidates in London achieved A* or A grades, up six percentage points from last year. In contrast, the East Midlands and the north-east both recorded 23.1% top grades, leaving a 9.6 percentage point gap between London and the north-east—the largest since 2019, when the disparity was just 3.9 points.

The A* grade gap has also widened, from two percentage points in 2019 to 5.1 points in 2026. These figures underscore a growing divide that experts say is not simply a north-south issue but a story of London pulling away from much of the rest of England.

Regional Breakdown of Top Grades

The table clearly shows London's dominance, while other regions lag behind. The north-east's slight increase from 22.9% last year is marginal, and the East Midlands actually saw a decline from 23.8% in 2025.

Why London Leads

Several factors contribute to London's success. Tony Blair's London Challenge, launched in 2003, began transforming the capital's schools. Higher teacher pay, better resources, and a concentration of cultural and economic opportunities have also played a role. Professor Lee Elliot Major of Exeter University notes, "Our capital has become an educational outlier while too many young people in the north-east, East Midlands and other parts of the country are growing up in very different worlds of opportunity."

He adds, "Talent is spread evenly across the country; opportunity is not." This sentiment is echoed by policymakers who see devolution as a potential solution.

Key Takeaways

• London's A* and A rate is 32.7%, far above the national average.
• The gap between London and the north-east is 9.6 percentage points, the largest since 2019.
• East Midlands and north-east both sit at 23.1% for top grades.
• Devolution plans may help regions adapt education strategies to local needs.

Implications for Education and Opportunity

These disparities have long-term consequences for social mobility and economic growth. Students outside London face fewer opportunities, which can perpetuate inequality. The government's devolution agenda aims to give regional areas more control over education policy, but experts warn that without significant investment, the gap may continue to widen.

As Andy Burnham prioritizes regional inequality, the education sector watches closely. The data from this year's A-level results serves as a stark reminder that the promise of equal opportunity remains unfulfilled for many young people.

FAQ

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the record disparities in A-level results demand urgent attention to ensure every student, regardless of location, has a fair chance to succeed.

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