A DECISION to replace GCSEs and A-Levels with school-based assessments has been criticised for being 'unacceptably last minute' by Dorset headteachers - with one suggesting the old exam system could be scrapped altogether going forward, writes Sam McKeown.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson confirmed the decision in the House of Commons yesterday afternoon.

The news comes after last summer’s fiasco where thousands of students saw their marks downgraded by a computer algorithm.

 

Mike Foley, headteacher at The Thomas Hardye School, in Queens Avenue, Dorchester, said the school-based assessments were the way forward after last summer's problems, but called the announcement 'last minute'.

He said: "I regret to say the decision is very last minute, which isn't acceptable. The signs for a new system to predict grades was clear a month ago."

Mr Foley has asked the Government to provide a 'clear and consistent grade system, so teachers can provide fair results, adding: "Many of my students in my history class have been raising issues over grading, and I've just not been able to tell them anything because I didn't know what to say to them. It's been challenging."

Nigel Evans, headteacher at Weymouth College, in Cranford Avenue, said the decision by the Government could provide an opportunity to scrap exams altogether.

He said: "Teachers know their pupils more than any algorithm - so relying on teachers to estimate grades is a welcome decision.

"The fact we've not had any exams for nearly two years throws questions over whether exams are needed at all.

"The truth is examination processes are not for everyone. Some pupils excel through different educational ways."

Mr Evans said the Government's decision now provides time for the education system to produce a new way of grading.

"If I was to go to my GP, I wouldn't care less if my doctor had straight A grades. I would want a doctor who was calm and had great communication skills," said Mr Evans.

"The Government's decision provides us with the opportunity to review the exam system and whether it's needed at all."

Going forward Mr Foley said he would like earlier warning from the Government.

He added: "I'm aware of how difficult this situation is, but with any latest decisions, we want earlier warning from the Government.

"That way we can prepare better."

Announcing the school-based assessment system, Mr Williamson also announced that the government will provide a further one million laptops and tablets for disadvantaged pupils and that it is working with mobile networks to offer internet in some settings.

He said more coronavirus testing will be carried out in a bid to get pupils back into the classroom as soon as possible.

Mr Williamson had continually insisted exams would take place in 2021 until earlier this week.