Provisional figures indicate that while GCSE results across Coventry in 2026 were broadly comparable with earlier years, a significant rise was recorded in the percentage of pupils obtaining higher grades in English and mathematics.
More than 50 percent of secondary schools in the city recorded gains in the number of students securing grades 9 to 5 in these core subjects.
The 2026 Coventry provisional GCSE outcomes compared with 2025 show:
English and Mathematics combined:
42.8 percent of pupils secured a higher grade outcome (grades 9 to 5), representing an increase from 41.1 percent in 2025.
61.5 percent of pupils achieved the standard pass threshold (grades 9 to 4), compared with 61.1 percent the previous year.
In the English qualification, pupils recorded:
Higher grade outcome (grades 9 to 5) of 60.0 percent, rising from 58.2 percent in 2025.
Standard pass (grades 9 to 4) of 73.5 percent, up from 72.5 percent.
In the Mathematics qualification, pupils recorded:
Higher grade outcome (grades 9 to 5) of 48.5 percent, rising from 46.3 percent in 2025.
Standard pass (grades 9 to 4) of 66.2 percent, up from 65.8 percent.
Overall achievement:
The Attainment 8 measure, which reflects results across all subjects, stayed at levels consistent with 2025.
Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, the Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Equalities at Coventry City Council, offered his congratulations to all Coventry pupils collecting their GCSE results today. He noted that the outcomes demonstrated the dedication, effort and perseverance displayed by young people throughout their studies.
The results across all subjects reflected the commitment of students, the backing provided by their families, and the hard work of teachers and school employees. He expressed particular satisfaction at the growth in students achieving better outcomes in English and mathematics.
He stated that the GCSE results would create opportunities for further study, apprenticeships and jobs, and that he took pride in what the young people of Coventry had accomplished. He wished them every success going forward.
Sukriti Sen, Director of Children and Education Services, extended her congratulations to all Coventry pupils and the city’s schools. She remarked that it was encouraging to see overall achievement remain steady and particularly gratifying to observe advances in both English and mathematics, with additional young people obtaining higher grades in these vital subjects.
She observed that the results showcased the ambition, determination and resolve of pupils and families alongside the dedication of headteachers, classroom teachers and support workers throughout the city. She expressed pride in their accomplishments and anticipation of watching young people build upon this achievement as they progressed into the next phase of their education, training or careers.
Pupils who have concerns about their results were advised to discuss options with their teachers, careers advisers and family members.
Further support and guidance can be accessed through the National Careers Service, which delivers complimentary and unbiased information and advice, with qualified careers advisers accessible through webchat.
Their Exam Results Helpline, 0800 100 900, also offers assistance to help young people and their parents consider next steps and explore suitable pathways, available Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and on Saturdays and bank holidays from 10am to 5pm. Calls are free from landlines and the majority of mobile networks.