Update on Exams for GCSE and A Levels

Following the statement given to Parliament by Gavin Williamson yesterday afternoon, and confirmed by DfE yesterday evening. The paragraph below is taken directly from the Department for Education press release yesterday:

GCSEs and A Levels will not be going ahead as planned in the summer. The exams regulator, Ofqual, will launch a consultation on the options for alternatives to the exams to ensure every young person gets a fair grade for their work. Ofqual will work with the Department for Education, exam boards and members of the education sector to plan for the very best option. The expectation is that teacher assessment will be part of the process. Training and support will be provided to teachers to ensure that grades are awarded fairly and consistently.

As yet, we have no further detail as to what the assessment process or the awarding of grades will actually look like, but I would like to reassure you that, when we are invited to contribute to the consultation, we will work hard to ensure that we insist on a 'fair' process.

GCSE and A level subject content is preparation for further study and the world of work. It is important that you focus on your current learning and future aspirations.

Recent letters sent to students and parents about GCSE and A-Level Exams can be found below.

Questions answered on Exam Procedures

Please take the time to read the documents below.  This is important information regarding examination regulations and procedures.  If you have any questions please contact your Head of Year.

The following links to individual awarding body (exam board) websites provide examinations information and support to students and parents:

www.aqa.org.uk
qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-for-you/students.html
www.ocr.org.uk/ocr-for/learners-and-parents
www.jcq.org.uk

Exam Certificates

The following information applies under normal circumstances. Covid-19 related procedures will be communicated to relevant students.

Under normal circumstances, exam certificates:

• Cannot be posted
• Must be signed for  
• Can only be collected after the presentation event, and within a published time frame.

If a student cannot collect personally, a named person may collect on their behalf, provided they bring with them a letter of authorisation hand-signed by the student, and proof of their identity.

Contact Details

For questions relating to examinations, please telephone the school on 0118 940 2357 and ask to speak to the Exams Officer or the relevant Head of Year. Alternatively, send an email to exams@piggottschool.org