A-level students in Brighton and Hove outperformed the national average for the top grades with 58.8 per cent achieving A* to B.
The provisional results for 2,068 state school students compare with a national average of 52.9 per cent of pupils passing with A* to B grades.
The overall pass rate locally – 97.9 per cent – is in line with the national average.
Brighton and Hove City Council said: “Local schools and colleges have also performed well in Level 3 BTEC qualifications, a vocational alternative to A levels.
“More than 700 students have gained BTEC qualifications, with more than half achieving the top distinction and distinction* marks.
“The percentage of AS-level students passing with good grades is also up, despite overall entries being down by 40 per cent as a result of the introduction of reformed standalone AS levels.
“The number of A* to B grades at AS level went up by 8.5 per cent across all centres.
“In the International Baccalaureate Diploma, available at Varndean College, the 47 students averaged an amazing 36 points – rated by universities as the equivalent of three A grades at A level.”
Councillor Dan Chapman, who chairs the council’s Children and Young People Committee, said: “These results are particularly good news given the changes taking place nationally with A levels.
“Our students may have been feeling anxious but they have come through with flying colours.
“But today is not just about A levels. More and more of our young people are seeing the value of the high-quality vocational courses and apprenticeships.
“I’m every bit as thrilled with the success stories we’ve seen in these areas as well.
“We will continue to work closely with our schools, colleges and training providers to bring about further improvements in future.”
