OUR A level students have excelled themselves. They have achieved a terrific set of results which stands as testament to their talent and hard work.

The grades are also a public tribute to the dedication of teachers and the high standards of so many schools in York and beyond. For the first time, this year's A level results were given to the pupils first and the media afterwards, to stop the annual debate about falling standards "undermining student achieve-ment".

Unfortunately, that debate is inevitable. With the pass rate relentlessly edging closer to 100 per cent, questions have to be asked about whether the "gold standard" is being maintained.

This situation suits nobody. It is particularly hard on the students themselves. There is evidence to suggest they are working harder than their predecessors, with coursework demands placing pressure on them throughout their two years' study.

And because so many achieve high grades, teenagers feel obliged to find time for community and sports activities to distinguish themselves from the pack.

That is necessary because employers and universities argue that A levels are diminishingly useful as a guide to a school leaver's ability. They find it particularly hard to judge who are the truly outstanding students.

Add into the mix a fear that teenagers are opting for the "wrong" subjects for our modern economy, and the Government's stubborn refusal to reform A levels looks plain dumb.

Updated: 11:30 Thursday, August 18, 2005