Commenting ahead of the publication of GCSE results on Thursday
12 August, Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of
School and College Leaders, said:
“As with A-level results, it is likely that the distribution of
GCSE grades will be different this year because a different
system of teacher assessment has been used following the
government’s decision to cancel public exams in light of the
circumstances created by the coronavirus pandemic.
“This is a robust system which we are confident will deliver fair
and accurate grades thanks to the hard work of teachers and
leaders – but it is not the same as holding public exams. It is
therefore important to focus on the achievements of this cohort
rather than fixate on comparisons with other years which are
somewhat meaningless. These pupils deserve great credit for all
they have achieved in extremely difficult circumstances, as do
the leaders and teachers who have supported them so well during
the course of the crisis.
“GCSEs are primarily used as a means of progression to the next
stage of education or training in colleges, sixth forms and
apprenticeships, although GCSE English and maths have a more
lasting legacy for students. Whatever the distribution of grades
happens to be this year, colleges and sixth forms have very
effective admissions systems and experienced teachers, and they
are extremely good at matching students to the right courses.
“Pupils awaiting their results can have every confidence that
they will be able to progress in the normal way and take the next
step in their education. We extend our best wishes to them for
results day and beyond.”
