IT may be the 29th consecutive year that A-Level examination results have hit record levels but in New Forest and Christchurch claims of dumbing down have been firmly refuted.

Brockenhurst College, principal Di Roberts gave a firm "No" to the question.

"Brockenhurst is a non-selective college for students with a range of abilities, 50 per cent of our students achieve A or B grades and that is down to their hard work and determination and to their dedicated and inspirational teachers," she said.

"The qualifications are still rigorous and we should be celebrating students' success."

Twynham's Dr Terry Fish said: "If a school doesn't do well in results, they are castigated and if they do get good results then suggestions of dumbing down begin. It is very unfair.

"I don't think standards have dropped. There are enough pressures for young people to cope with at this time in their lives and all of our students have done exceedingly well in all their efforts. I'm very proud."

  • For a full round-up of the A-level results across the region and pictures, see Friday's Daily Echo.