ANOTHER record-breaking crop of GCSE results was reaped today, followed by the inevitable outcry. Exams must be getting easier, the critics carp. Not for a moment do they contemplate the other possibility: that the students are getting better.

The truth is that modern pupils are more adept at examinations than any previous generation. Like old Eastern Bloc gymnasts training for the Olympics, they are put through their paces from early childhood. By 16 they are veterans at exams, having sat public tests at four, at seven, at 11 and at 14.

Decent qualifications are vital to get on in the modern, skill-driven economy. Today's youngsters are smart enough to know that, as today's tremendous results show. Congratulations to everyone who is celebrating GCSE success today.