The gap in GCSE performance between the best and worst areas in Wales has widened – and is at its worst point in five years.

In high performing Monmouthshire, a Conservative-run administration, 67% of all GCSEs were recorded as A* to C grades.

In comparison, Blaenau Gwent had the lowest, at just 41.1%.

Darren Millar AM, Welsh Conservative Shadow Education Secretary, said:

“The gap between the best and worst performing areas in Wales continues to grow, but we must congratulate teachers and pupils in Conservative-run Monmouthshire which had the highest proportion of A* to C grades in key subjects.

“After nearly two decades in Government, Welsh Labour has delivered the worst school system in the UK, as evidenced by the international PISA assessment.

“If that wasn’t bad enough, GCSE results in Wales this year fell to their worst level in a decade.

“A consistent failure to introduce proper economic or educational reforms has meant that children are prevented from reaching their potential, with many from our poorest communities being left behind, ill-equipped to contend with a growingly competitive job market.”