By PM understands ‘anxiety’ over exam grading
The Prime Minister has said that he understands that there is some “anxiety” regarding exam grades, as pupils across the UK prepare to receive their results this week.
Most exams were cancelled this year due to the coronavirus crisis.
Results are therefore being issued based on predicted grades.
This comes as Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has apologised for the controversial handling of its exam results.
Many results estimated for exams cancelled in Scotland were downgraded using an algorithm.
This saw pass rates for pupils in deprived areas downgraded further than those in more affluent parts.
Speaking to the BBC, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Clearly, because of what has happened this year, there is some anxiety about what grades pupils are going to get, and everybody understands the system – that the teachers are setting the grades, then there’s a standardisation system.
“We will do our best to ensure that the hard work of pupils is properly reflected.”
Sean Coughlan, Education and Family Correspondent for the BBC added:
“In reality teachers’ predicted grades have mostly been sidelined – and instead the two key factors for grades will be how pupils are ranked and schools’ previous results.
“As the row in Scotland has shown, pegging estimated grades to how schools usually perform will be seen as locking in disadvantage.
“It means bright pupils in low-achieving schools can lose out.
“And many more will be confused at the gap between their teachers’ predictions and their results.
“But so far there are no signs of the emergency brakes from ministers in England.
“Instead they are relying on schools being able to appeal against harsh results and that disappointed pupils can take back-up exams in the autumn.”
Mr Johnson reaffirmed his position, stating that “education is a priority for the country – that is simple social justice.”
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