Commenting on guidance from the Joint Council for Qualifications
(JCQ) on the grading of A levels and GCSEs in lieu of exams this
summer, Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of
School and College Leaders, said:
“It is frustrating that schools and colleges have had to wait for
detailed guidance on awarding grades for nearly three months
since the Education Secretary cancelled exams and promised that
contingency arrangements just needed some fine-tuning. However,
the guidance itself is helpful and comprehensive, and probably
represents the fairest way of assessing students this summer in
difficult circumstances. It gives teachers flexibility to use a
range of evidence in assessing students, enabling them to take
into account lost learning as a result of the pandemic, and it
sets out quality assurance processes to ensure that grades are
awarded fairly and consistently across the country.
“This will, however, mean a huge amount of additional work for
school and college leaders and for teaching staff, at a time when
they are already under enormous pressure managing Covid safety
processes, and supporting pupils after the lockdown. They have 12
weeks in which to set up, deliver and quality assure assessments
for every student in every subject in order to hit the deadline
for submitting grades on 18 June. We know that the government,
Ofqual and exam boards are all aware that this is extremely
demanding, but we would once again reiterate the importance of
ensuring that all possible assistance is given to schools and
colleges over the coming weeks, and that they are not saddled
with any more responsibilities.
“We are pleased that the guidance makes it clear that the range
of evidence used by teachers is not negotiable by students, and
that repeated attempts by students to influence grade decisions
by applying pressure to staff may constitute malpractice. The
vast majority of parents and students are very supportive of
their schools and colleges, and would not dream of behaving in
this way. But we need the small minority who may be inclined to
over-assert their viewpoint to respect the fact that teachers and
centres will be making professional evidence-based judgements in
a way which is designed to ensure all students are treated fairly
and equally.”
