IT IS THAT time of year again. Children returning to school, the obligatory first day photos and the increase in traffic in the mornings. The start of a new school year is the perfect time to reflect on education. It's also a big time in our family as our son started Nursery School this week. He is fine and we are very proud parents so you may see me smiling more than usual.

Over the past couple of weeks young people across my constituency have been receiving exam results. I want to offer my warmest congratulations to students, staff and parents whose hard work and support has produced another strong set of ‘A’ level, AS level, GCSE and Welsh Baccalaureate results in Penarth.

Students at St Cyres are celebrating a record breaking year of ‘A’ level results. 20 per cent of students achieved A* or A grades and 66 per cent A*-C. The school is also celebrating its best ever GCSE A* and A grades. At Stanwell, 34 per cent of pupils achieved A* or A grades, with 86 per cent of the year group achieving A* to C. At GCSE level 35 per cent of all results were graded A* or A.

These truly are results which should be celebrated by everyone. The main credit lies with the effort of the pupils, as well as their dedication and determination to achieve. But we cannot forget the importance of the support which they have received from family and staff. Or the high standard of teaching and learning that is delivered at both St Cyres and Stanwell schools to open up the many pathways to success for them.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the young people that have collected GCSE and A-Level results the very best in their next steps. Whether that is continuing studies at further or higher education, taking up apprenticeships or training courses, or seeking employment. With the continued level of effort and determination I am sure of a successful future.

Once again, congratulations to all those involved in achieving these fantastic results.