Teacher assessments to be used for A-level and GCSE results

The news comes as exam regulator Ofqual faced backlash last Thursday on the back of A-Level results day for implementing an algorithm that lowered grades - particularly in disadvantaged areas.

Telford College has welcomed the decision, the college had already made its own decision to accept teacher-assessed GCSE grades for all new students this year before the U-turn was announced by education secretary Gavin Williamson.

Graham Guest, principal and chief executive, said: “I think common sense has prevailed – this U-turn is good news for everybody. It’s a shame that this decision couldn’t have been made a bit earlier.

“We had already made the decision to go with GCSE assessment grades made by the teachers because we didn’t want young people to be disadvantaged.

“We felt it was important to take away the stress for young people who are worried about what is going to happen on results day.

“We have very strong and close relationships with secondary schools across the town, and have full confidence in the quality and accuracy of the grades which teachers have predicted for their students.

“Exam results week is stressful enough for young people at the best of times – hopefully students can now be reassured that the work they have done towards their GCSEs will be fairly reflected.

“The most important thing right now is that students do not feel they are being unfairly disadvantaged, and can plan their future with some certainty.”

He added: “The past few days have been emotionally draining for our students, because they had worked so hard.

“And our staff put so much work and effort into putting the information together that went off to the awarding bodies in June – for that to be ignored was quite distressing for everybody.” 

College staff are already on hand to discuss progression opportunities with students. The college’s course enquiries hotline is 01952 642237.