U-turn will bring some relief to worried A-level and GCSE students says senior councillor

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet member for Children and Young People’s Services, Coun Adam Wilkinson (Lab, Sowerby Bridge), hoped the Government’s U-turn, which saw it drop this year’s COVID-19 pandemic affected method of grading the exams, would bring some relief to both worried A-level students and GCSE students due to receive their own results tomorrow (Thursday, August 20).

The Government and Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson, have faced heavy criticism this week over use of the algorithm and initially sticking by the system which saw many students awarded lower grades than those assessed by teachers, and in danger of missing out on university and college places.

Examinations were not held because of the ongoing pandemic.

Instead the Government has now said results based on teachers’ grading assessments would be used this year.

Coun Wilkinson said: “Students this year have faced some of the most uncertain and challenging times we’ve ever known in this country.

“We know this has been a really anxious time for young people and their parents and carers.

“I’m sure that many young people who received their A-level results last week and those waiting for their GCSE grades will be relieved with the news that the results will now be based on teacher assessments.

“We believe this is the fairest approach as it reflects the students’ most recent performances in the classroom

“We’re very proud of all our young people who have achieved so much in such difficult circumstances.”

Coun Wilkinson said some students may still be concerned about their results or worried about their future and there was help and guidance available to them.

“There are lots of people who can help in this situation and it’s important not to face these worries alone.

“Schools and colleges are these to offer support and advice and there are also helplines to call for more information.

“I encourage anyone in this position to visit https://ofqual.blog.gov.uk/ for more information or if they need some support and want to talk through their next steps, contact C&K Careers,” he said.