'Don't let challenging year detract from achievements' - Praise for South Tyneside students, teachers and parents as A Level results

Teenagers across the country are receiving their results today, despite having not seen the inside of an exam hall, or even a classroom, for months.

Instead, youngsters are being given grades based on teachers’ predictions and previous test results and coursework performance after the COVID-19 outbreak forced the cancellation of usual assessments.

“This has been a challenging year for young people in South Tyneside,” said Cllr Moira Smith, cabinet member for Children, Young People and Families, at South Tyneside Council.

“They have not had the opportunity to showcase their skills in external exams and many will have been anxious about the outcomes today.

“However, this should in no way detract from the hard work and commitment they have demonstrated throughout their two years of study.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to our school staff and parents and carers who have supported our young people along their journey although, ultimately, it is our students who must take the credit today.

“I wish them well in their future endeavours.”

As well as A-levels, AS-level, BTEC and other equivalent technical qualifications are due to be confirmed today, with every school and college putting their own measures in place for pupils to collect results.

On Wednesday, August 12, the government announced a new ‘triple lock’ measure for anyone who fears their final grade may have been unfairly affected by school closures and exam cancellations imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

This could see students who scored higher marks in mock tests before the COVID-19 lockdown allowed to choose those over the grade they are given today.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Every young person waiting for their results wants to know they have been treated fairly.

“By ensuring students have the safety net of their mock results, as well as the chance of sitting autumn exams, we are creating a triple lock process to ensure confidence and fairness in the system.

“No one wanted to cancel exams – they are the best form of assessment, but the disruption caused by Covid-19 meant they were not possible.”

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