New official statistics show that average GCSE attainment in Wales declined in 2025–26, while the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers widened.
The average Capped 9 score, measuring performance across nine qualifications, fell from 354.3 points in 2024–25 to 350.3 points in 2025–26.
The difference between pupils eligible for free school meals and those who were not increased from 78.6 to 82 points.
Across all GCSE entries, 64% achieved grades A*–C, broadly unchanged from the previous year. At A-level, the proportion of entries awarded A*–A fell by one percentage point.
The statistics cover maintained schools and exclude independent schools and further education institutions.
Why it matters: The widening disadvantage gap raises questions about the effectiveness of interventions targeting educational inequality. The figures also provide a new evidence base for examining differences between schools and local authorities.
