The Impacts of School Closures on GCSEs and A-Levels in the UK

The question the public should be asking is not about closing schools, but rather, what would be the impact of cancelling GCSEs and A-Levels? The answer is likely to be minimal, as alternative methods will be implemented to ensure students receive the necessary qualifications.

Factors Leading to Cancellations

Due to the current closure of schools, the traditional May-June period for GCSE and A-Level examinations is at risk. Exact measures to determine grades have not yet been announced, but there are two main approaches being considered:

Rescheduling Exams

The first option is to reschedule the exams for a later date in the academic year, assuming schools reopen in time. This would ensure students have adequate preparation time before the rescheduled exams.

Alternative Assessment Methods

The second option involves determining grades through a combination of predicted grades, classwork, and results from mock exams and practice papers. A grading curve might be implemented, but this possibility remains unlikely as it would be more straightforward to rely on existing data and teacher predictions.

Government’s Approach

The government has committed to providing students with their necessary qualifications despite potential cancellations. As of now, the details of the chosen approach remain undisclosed.

Source credible reports suggest four different options are being discussed. An official announcement is expected in the coming days to clarify the government's preferred approach.

Confirmed Updates

As of Thursday, 19th March, it has been confirmed that public exams for the current academic year will not be held. The government expects to announce its chosen plan by Friday, 20th March. However, the rapidly evolving situation may lead to further updates.

Alternative Assurances

Educational authorities are exploring alternative methods to ensure students receive the qualifications they need. Options range from rescheduling exams to relying on teacher predictions and existing academic data.

Closing Remarks

Though the cancellation of exams due to school closures poses challenges, the educational system is actively working to find solutions. The government and educational institutions are committed to maintaining academic progress and fairness for all students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will students receive the qualifications they need?
Yes, the government has committed to ensuring students receive their qualifications, regardless of any changes in the exam schedule.

Q2: When will the government announce its chosen plan for alternative examinations?
As of the latest update, the announcement is expected by Friday, 20th March, though this may change based on ongoing developments.

Q3: What other measures are being considered?
Options include rescheduling exams, relying on teacher predicted grades, and using classwork and mock exam results to determine final grades.