Peterborough education chief praises students and staff on A Level results day.

In an unprecedented move in light of the pandemic, students in England were not asked to sit formal exams, but instead have been awarded grades based on a set of pre-existing information and intelligence; such as how they performed in previous exams, and how well their teachers predicted they would do if they sat formal tests.

The Department for Education this week announced a new ‘Triple Lock’ approach, meaning pupils could have whichever result is highest from either their estimated grade or mock exam results – with a third option being considered which would offer students the opportunity to sit exams in the autumn term.

Students who receive grades lower than they were expecting are asked to contact their school, as they may have grounds for appeal, providing they and their teachers can provide evidence suggesting a higher grade should have been awarded.

Jonathan Lewis, Director of Education for Cambridgeshire County and Peterborough City Councils, said: “It goes without saying that our teachers and school-aged children have faced a time like no other, with 2020 not exactly following the standard format of an academic year, to say the least.

The changes and uncertainty have been felt deeply by those were due to sit A Level exams, and also by the teachers who would be leading them through it.

“I want to thank our school and academy leaders, and all those pupils involved in exams this year, for their dedication, hard work and willingness to adapt to what has been a changing situation. I know it hasn’t been easy for anyone involved, but I’m pleased our students are able to continue on their path to further education or employment.

“If any young person receives a grade they feel is unfair, I would encourage them to speak to their school, as they will be able to advise what to do next”.”

Councillor Lynne Ayres, Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, Skills and the University, said “ I know has been a particularly difficult year, and I’m proud of the attitude and approach shown by young people across Peterborough. It brings me great hope for the future, and I wish them well”

Councillor Simon Bywater, Chairman of the Children and Young People Committee for Cambridgeshire County Council, said, “I wanted to share my best wishes to everyone awaiting results. Exams can be stressful at the best of times, and there is no doubt the situation this year has made things even more difficult – but I know our young people have not stopped researching and working hard, and I have been proud to see they have risen to the challenge”.

The exam results helpline, delivered by the National Careers Service, will be available from 12 to 28 August to provide additional support to students and their parents as they receive their exam results. Callers to the helpline will have direct access to experienced careers advisers who can advise on the different options available to them including T levels, A levels, GCSEs, BTECs, apprenticeships and other vocational options. Support will also be available on topics such as clearing, university, gap years and the autumn 2020 exam series.

Phone: 0800 100 900

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 8am to 10pm