Commenting ahead of the publication of results for A-levels,
AS-levels and vocational qualifications on Tuesday 10 August,
Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of School and
College Leaders, said:
“This will be a results day like no other. The global pandemic
and huge disruption to the education system has hugely impacted
on learning and caused a change in the way that this year’s
A-levels and other qualifications are assessed with public exams
cancelled and teachers assessing students instead.
“Students deserve huge credit for their fortitude in such
circumstances, and teachers for the enormous amount of work they
have put into implementing this system at great speed following
the government’s abject failure to prepare a contingency plan for
exams being cancelled.
“There has been speculation about the possibility of grade
inflation this year.
“It would not be surprising if the distribution of grades is
different from years when exams take place, or indeed the grade
distribution last year, because this year’s approach to
assessment is different from other years and making direct
comparisons is therefore akin to comparing apples with oranges.
“This does not represent a devaluing of the grades awarded. On
the contrary. This cohort of students has suffered more
educational disruption than any cohort since the second world war
and their achievements are extraordinary in such difficult
circumstances and should be celebrated.
“There have also been reports about pressure on university
places. We are sure the vast majority of students will achieve
their preferred place. Where students miss grades and enter the
clearing process then universities, schools, and colleges will be
doing everything possible to support them in obtaining a place on
a course which fulfils their aspirations.
“This is an anxious time in any year, but we would reassure
students that they will progress to the next stage of their lives
and can look forward to bright futures. We wish them well.”
