University leaders welcome Government U-turn on A-Levels and GCSEs
University leaders have welcomed the Government U-turn to ensure exam students receive the grades their teachers predicted – but said the uncertainty and worry had been tough for youngsters.
A-level and GCSE students will now be given grades estimated by their teachers, rather than by an algorithm, after a change in direction from Government.
It follows uproar after thousands of A-level results were downgraded by exams regulator Ofqual, which used a formula based on schools' prior grades.
And while some students have now got the grades they deserve, they have sadly lost out on their first choice university due to the algorithm.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: "While we welcome the change in direction by the Government, throughout we have been clear that we want to bring certainty to young people. It is in the students’ interests to consider the tough journey they have been on and our role is to support them to fulfil their potential.
“We have always looked at each person as an individual. We believe that, given the current circumstances, this is the right thing to do for a generation that already faces enormous challenges.
“We will continue to honour all offers that we have made to applicants. If they choose to accept that offer we will ensure that they are fully supported in their transition into higher education and make sure that they are equipped to succeed on their chosen course.”
Professor Liz Barnes, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Staffordshire University, added: "The impact of the pandemic has made this an incredibly challenging year for university applicants, who have not been able to sit their final exams.
"The uncertainty of the past week has served to compound this situation for thousands of young people, at a time when they were looking for clear and consistent guidance from official bodies.
"It is vital that grades reflect the hard work and commitment demonstrated by young people throughout this immensely challenging period, and we see this change of direction as a positive step.”
Dr Alyssa Phillips, director of student recruitment and admissions, said: "We are doing everything we can to build an overall picture of prospective students as individuals, judging them on their merits rather than on results alone. At Staffordshire University, we don’t just look at grades; we see students’ potential.
“If you don’t believe your grades reflect your true abilities, or if you’ve only just started to consider university as an option, our message is simple: contact our team to learn more about our exciting courses and to find out how we can help you."
