It is once again that time of the year when our young people are receiving their exam results and thinking about their futures.

I know this is a time of nerves and excitement for many of our young people but, whatever the outcome of results, we are proud of our young people’s hard work and the hard work of our teachers and education staff.

We will soon have overall statistics for our GCSE pupils, with their results coming out today (Thursday 21 August). Good luck to them all.

But, close to one-third of all A-level grades awarded in the borough last week were B or above, and 31% were A and above. Both figures are above the national average and in line with the Greater London average.

We want the borough to be the best possible place to raise a family and 99% of the borough’s schools being rated good or outstanding by national inspectors is a vital part of that.

The council is also a corporate parent for our looked after children and the council is particularly proud of the achievements of the children and young people in our care. Over recent years, a good number of our care leavers have gone straight into further education, university, training or employment.

It is the most important duty of any council leader to ensure the people in our care receive the best start in life we can give them and when I hear about all their results it fills me with pride.

VJ Day

Last week was the 80th anniversary of VJ day. The history of the Second World War is passing from living memory, but it is vital that it is remembered, and that its lessons are understood. That terrible war was the consequence of the politics of division and hatred.

We are fortunate to live in a borough that is inclusive, diverse and tolerant. It will only stay that way if we all remember the important lessons of history.