HAMPSHIRE teenagers have recorded their best ever GCSE results and outperformed national averages.

Initial government figures show Hampshire's schools continue to top the national trend with 57 per cent of 16-year-olds achieving five or more A*-C grades in this year's exams, four per cent above the country's average.

Southampton's figures will not be available for release until early next week, said a city council spokesman.

The provisional figures also show 92 per cent of Hampshire pupils achieved five or more A*-G grades, compared with 89 per cent nationally, with a hefty 90 per cent of those passes including the all-important English and maths, compared with 86 per cent nationally.

County schools boss Councillor Don Allen congratulated pupils, teachers and parents on the high level of achievement.

He said: "The hard work and commitment given by pupils and teachers has been reflected once again in this year's results.

"Everyone involved with these young people's education can feel justly proud of the part they have played in this success story.

"On behalf of Hampshire County Council I am very pleased to congratulate pupils and teachers as well as wishing pupils the very best for their future."

County education Officer Andrew Seber added: "The results show our high standards continue to be maintained in our schools.

"Once again pupil achievement in their GCSEs has exceeded the national average. We aim to ensure all young people are given the opportunity to work to the best of their ability and this year's results again recognise this."

One of the reasons the county council publishes GCSE results is to provide information for parents whose children will be transferring to secondary school in September 2004.

The information helps parents and youngsters identify their school preferences by the deadline of noon on Tuesday, November 4.

See tomorrow's Daily Echo for a full school-by-school breakdown of the results.