Pupils in Bath and North East Somerset improved their GCSE results compared to figures from last year, according to initial data provided by B&NES Council.
Figures across the area show the average Attainment 8 score (a measure showing how well pupils have done in a range of eight subjects) has risen so that it is now equivalent to a strong pass (Grade 5).
The proportion of pupils achieving at least a strong pass in both English and maths has risen from 42 per cent to 48 per cent and the proportion achieving at least a standard pass (Grade 4) has risen from 63 per cent to 69 per cent.
Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for Children and Young People, said: “In a year when pupils, parents, teachers and school leaders have been concerned about the new, more challenging GCSE courses it is a credit to all concerned that results have improved.
“Well done to all those young people who got their results yesterday.
“It has been a period of substantial change for teachers and pupils, both at GCSE and A level. Bath & North East Somerset Council recognises the hard work that pupils have put in to achieve these results, and the dedication that their teachers have shown in preparing them so well.
“Behind these average figures there are many individual stories of success at all levels.
“I hope all pupils have achieved what they need to embark on the next stage of their education, employment or training.”