ACROSS the country, A-level results day produced an overall picture of consolidation.

No significant changes to the system, an overall pass rate which was marginally up on last year, the proportion of A* grades remaining static and A grades down 0.1 per cent. Nothing spectacular but the value of the A-level qualification maintained.

Here in the North-East, students and teachers can be proud of "exceptional" results, with the region celebrating the highest overall pass rate in the country at 98.5 per cent.

While that is undoubtedly a significant achievement, there is a disconnect in that the North-East comes bottom when it comes to university admissions.

Students should not take the view that university is the only route forward and we have been passionate advocates of the value of apprenticeships.

Next month, the Hitachi train-building factory will open at Newton Aycliffe, presenting huge economic opportunities, and we welcome the investment in a college of engineering excellence which will be established nearby.

Nevertheless, the fact that less than a third of students apply for higher education is a reflection of a region still lacking confidence after the economic downturn of the past decade, as well as traditionally low aspirations. That remains a key challenge for the North-East.

Loving tribute

The Northern Echo:
SKYDIVE: Tracy Fisher watches as her late husband's ashes are scattered during her skydive

WELL done to Tracy Fisher, of Richmond, who is featured on Page 3 of today's paper, scattering her husband Duncan's ashes ashes during a skydive.

Duncan's ambition had been to do a parachute jump but he had been able to fulfil his wish due to the epilepsy which led to his death six months ago.

What a wonderful way to remember him by leaping from an aircraft in aid of the Help For Heroes charity.

Tracy, you did Duncan proud.