As GCSE results day approaches on the 22nd of August, a new study reveals a striking disparity in pass rates across the UK, underscoring a stark economic divide between regions. The study, conducted by the online casino JeffBet, analysed the percentage of students achieving high passes in English and Maths during the 2022-2023 academic year. The findings highlight that students in the London Borough of Sutton are most likely to succeed, while those in Knowsley, Merseyside, face the greatest challenges.
The analysis defines a high pass as achieving a grade 5 or above, with a standard pass classified as grade 4. The London Borough of Sutton tops the list with an impressive 69.19% of students attaining a grade 5 or higher. In contrast, Knowsley languishes at the bottom, with only 19.52% of students achieving the same standard.
London Dominates Top Rankings
Seven of the top ten areas with the highest GCSE pass rates are in London. Following Sutton, Kingston upon Thames ranks second with 66.67% of students achieving a grade 5 or above. Barnet, Richmond upon Thames, and Redbridge follow, with pass rates of 65.98%, 65.04%, and 63.64% respectively. Outside London, Trafford in Greater Manchester, Wokingham, and Buckinghamshire also feature in the top ten, with pass rates ranging from 59.93% to 63.41%.
The top 10 UK areas with the highest pass rates:
| Rank | Location | Percentage of pupils achieving a grade 5 or above |
| 1 | Sutton | 69.19% |
| 2 | Kingston upon Thames | 66.67% |
| 3 | Barnet | 65.98% |
| 4 | Richmond upon Thames | 65.04% |
| 5 | Redbridge | 63.64% |
| 6 | Trafford | 63.41% |
| 7 | Hammersmith and Fulham | 62.50% |
| 8 | Wokingham | 61.42% |
| 9 | Westminster | 60.35% |
| 10 | Buckinghamshire | 59.93% |
Northern Regions Struggle
At the other end of the spectrum, several areas in the North of England have the lowest pass rates. Knowsley, Merseyside, is the most likely area for students to fail their GCSEs, with a mere 19.52% achieving a grade 5 or above. This marks a significant decline from the previous year’s figure of 26.40%. Other regions with low pass rates include Blackpool (26.52%), Portsmouth (31.56%), and North East Lincolnshire (31.89%).
The UK areas with the lowest GCSE pass rates:
| Rank | Location | Percentage of pupils achieving a grade 5 or above |
| 1 | Knowsley | 19.52% |
| 2 | Blackpool | 26.52% |
| 3 | Portsmouth | 31.56% |
| 4 | North East Lincolnshire | 31.89% |
| 5 | Stoke-on-Trent | 33.33% |
| 6 | Middlesbrough | 34.19% |
| 7 | Sandwell | 35.39% |
| 8 | Nottingham | 35.56% |
| 9 | Bradford | 35.60% |
| 10 | Rochdale | 36.04% |
Economic Disparities and Educational Outcomes
The study highlights a significant economic divide between regions, which correlates with educational outcomes. In 2021, London had the highest gross disposable household income per head at £31,094, compared to the UK average of £21,679. This economic advantage allows parents in London to invest more in extra-curricular activities and private tuition for their children. In contrast, Knowsley’s gross disposable household income is significantly lower at £17,262 per head, compared to Sutton’s £24,426.
A spokesperson for JeffBet commented: “This study highlights the staggering economic divide between the north and south of England. The alarming difference in economic income between the two areas has a direct impact on children’s education, as shown by this latest research. Based on the disposable household income figures, it’s apparent that children in the north do not have the same extra-curricular opportunities as those in the south. It should be a priority for every child to have equal academic opportunities in the UK.”
National GCSE Performance
The overall performance of students in the 2022-2023 academic year also reflects broader concerns. The average percentage of students achieving a high pass (grade 5 or above) is 45.52%, a decline of over 3% from the previous year. Furthermore, only 68.2% of students achieved a grade 4 or above, the lowest since 2019.
Bridging the Gap
The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to bridge the educational divide. Ensuring equal access to quality education and resources for all students, regardless of their geographic location, is crucial. Efforts to address the economic disparities that contribute to these educational outcomes must be a priority for policymakers.
As students across the UK await their GCSE results, the stark contrast between regions serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and the urgent need for measures to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all.
